Book Review: Rest For The Wicked by Cate Dean

Rest For The Wicked is the first book in The Claire Wiche Chronicles by Cate Dean. This urban fantasy begins with Claire Wiche, an ordinary woman, running a Wicca shop in an ordinary California beach town. But Claire wasn't always ordinary, and she isn't quite human. She hides a secret, and a past she thought she had put behind her. Unfortunately the past and big secrets are hard to keep buried, especially when it puts the few people Claire has come to care for in danger. Claire needs to stand up and defend her friends and face her past even if it kills her.

Rest for the Wicked is a short book, and a quick read. It was also a book with a ton of promise. I loved the characters, but felt that there could have been a lot more of building them. Claire is a powerful witch with a hidden past and battling some kind of illness. Annie is Claire's outgoing and man crazy side kick (my favorite character by the way), and then there are Jack and Marcus who both have a significant role to play. I really liked the plot, and the villain from Claire's past doing bad, bad things. However, I think this book should have been longer, offering more insights into the relationship between Annie and Claire, offering more background on the mythology of the supernatural elements and more time for new relationships to form. I enjoyed Dean's writing style, but just wanted more from the story.

Rest for the Wicked is a quick, interesting read. However, I felt like it could have been fleshed out much more. I liked what was offered, but felt like I missed out on a good bit of information. Perhaps if Dean put the glossary she offers at the end of the book in the beginning, it would offer a more satisfying reading experience. That being said, I just might pick up the second book just to see if the missing bits are picked up there.

Book Review: Is A Worry Worrying You? by Ferida Wolff, Harriet May Savitz, Marie LeTourneau

Is A Worry Worrying You? is a picturebook by Ferida Wolff and Harriet May Savitz, with illustrations by Marie LeTourneau. The book address the worries of children with imaginative and sometimes very silly situations while offering solutions. The book speaks for itself quite well with: “A worry is a thought that stops your from having fun, from feeling good, from being happy. Don’t bother looking for a worry because you’ll never find it. It is invisible. But it seems very real.” Followed by the introduction of worries, but realistic and wacky, solutions to facing and overcome worries are offered.

Is A Worry Worrying You? is a fun and useful book. Some children are natural worriers, and other are bothered by just a few very specific fears. Regardless of the type of worry, everyone has some that they have to deal with. This book deals with how worries come to be, how they make you feel, and how to overcome them. Despite some of the more ridiculous worries, like having elephants over for tea and being out of some essentials, at no point is the book condescending or talking down to readers of any age. Worries are dealt with in a respectful and meaningful way that offers understanding and coping methods.

While neither of my kids are serious worriers, I full intend to bring out Is A Worry Worrying You? the next time the possibility of shots at the doctor, the idea of monsters in the dark, or other worry makes itself known. Acknowledging the presence of worries and the very real emotions they inspire make the coping methods and solutions offered much more useable and accepted by everyone.

Book Review: Faeries & Elementals for Beginners: Learn about & Communicate with Nature Spirits by Alexandra Chauran

Faeries & Elementals for Beginners: Learn about & Communicate with Nature Spirits is a nonfiction book by Alexandra Chauran. For those interested in the earth based religions or those just interested in faery lore, this guide will explain the natures of a wide assortment of Fae. If you are a practitioner looking to understand and work with  faeries and elementals and attract them to your home and garden, or just fascinated with the mere idea of them, this book is a wonderful starting point in your research.

Faeries & Elementals for Beginners is very matter of fact about the ideas of Fae, including elementals. While I am a practicing Lutheran and not one to dabble, I love reading about other beliefs and the foundations of various lore. There are far more things on earth and in the world in general than I can even pretend to understand, so I would rather research everything just in case. Also, as I read quite a bit of fiction that is paranormal, faery tale based, and urban fantasy I often will see mention and brief explanations of certain creatures in the pages, and find that more background and understanding of the lore adds an extra layer of enjoyment to my reading. So, if you do not believe that the Fae are real, do not immediately turn your nose up at the book, it is still an interesting read if approached with an open and curious mind.

For those that are interested in a practical application of the information found in Faeries & Elementals for Beginners, I have to say that it offers detailed information and would work as a wonderful cornerstone for your research. There is detailed information about the rituals, including the whys and wherefores. The wide variety of beings are well organized and described, offering more information on just about all of those listed then I have seen in any other book. There are step-by-step instructions for invoking faeries and elementals, you'll find rituals, meditations, and everything you need to begin safely interacting with these magical entities. I cannot attest to the accuracy of the methods offered, as I have not tried any of them.

I would recommend Faeries & Elementals for Beginners to anyone looking for more information of these creatures, and those looking to work with them. I think that it can also work as a great resource to readers and writers that are looking for more information on the subject, as well as to those looking for practical instruction.

Book Review: The Invisible Boy by Trudy Ludwig, Patrice Barton

The Invisible Boy is a picturebook written by Trudy Ludwig and illustrated by Patrice Barton. Brian is the invisible boy. He seems to be invisible in line, while teams are being chosen to play games, at lunch, and just about all the time. So, Brian often loses himself in his art to distract himself from going unnoticed. When a new boy joins his class Brian is left to wonder if it is better to be invisible or picked on. He reaches out to the new boy and in turn is given a moment of his own to shine.

The Invisible Boy is a story that I can heavily relate to. There were many times in my life (elementary school through college as well as among family and friends) where I have felt invisible. Like Brian, it is rarely because anyone doesn't particularly like you, but because teachers know they do not have to worry about you, that you are doing what you need to do rather than needing the extra effort. However, many do not realize how it feels to be the average kid that just kid of fades into the background, the reliable or steady one that needs no reminders of reprimands but also doesn't hit the home run for run faster than the rest. This book highlights that feeling, and can both make others (kids and adults alike) more aware of what others might be feeling while letting those that feel invisible that they are far from alone. Like Brian we might wonder if getting picked on or yelled at is worse or better than feeling invisible, and I like that Brian goes the extra mile to make sure the new kid knows that he is welcome and that not everyone will pick on him. Like most small acts of kindness, Brian's action brings the new boy to do one as well and is rewarded for his efforts. My favorite part of this exchange is that it does not feel like a direct tit for tat exchange, but rather one good deed inspiring another to be good as well. Perhaps the story shared in a family or classroom setting can inspire a spread of good feelings and kind gestures.

I would highly recommend The Invisible Boy for library, home, and classroom collections. I feel like the illustrations do a wonderful job of expressing the feeling of the characters, and expanding on the story. I think it could spark great discussions about how we treat each other, being mindful of others, empathy, and the power of kind actions.

Book Review: Kitty Hawk And The Curse Of The Yukon Gold by Iain Reading

Kitty Hawk And The Curse Of The Yukon Gold is the first book in a young adult series by Iain Reading. This adventure mystery story is part travel guide, part history lesson, and plenty of action and adventure. Kitty Hawk is an intrepid teenage pilot with her own De Havilland Beaver seaplane and a love of nature. After leaving the western Canadian fishing village of Tofino to spend the summer in Alaska studying humpback whales Kitty finds herself caught up in an unforgettable adventure involving stolen gold, devious criminals, ghostly shipwrecks, and bone-chilling curses. Wonderful bits of history about the Klondike Gold Rush as well as reference to literary greats from the area leave readers with a feeling like they have learned a great deal while enjoying Kitty's perilous adventure.

Kitty Hawk And The Curse Of The Yukon Gold is a young adult novel that is dense in information, but is too full of wonder to make the reader feel bogged down. I feel like I finished the book with a better appreciation for the wilds of Alaska and the history of the area. The author beautifully describes the whales and geological points of interest of the region, as well as the literary and historical importance of some of those landmarks. I found myself intrigued and eager to research certain things more as soon as I was able to put the book down.

Kitty is an independent girl, but one that has earned the trust of her family rather than having that trust feel artificial or because of neglect. I did occasionally find myself distracted by Kitty's conversations with herself- but I should not have been bothered by it because it is a habit I share with her. Again, her connection with the 'kidnappers' bothered me a little at first, like in many novels characters seem to trust and converse a little too easily,. but I think it all resolved nicely within a few pages and I felt better about it very quickly. I think Kitty will be a great role model for many readers- not because of the adventures and risks that she takes, but because of her trust in her abilities and awareness of the important thinks around her.

I would highly recommend Kitty Hawk And The Curse Of The Yukon Gold to young adult, and advanced middle grade, readers as well as adults that enjoy a read that is full of adventure but is also a very intelligent read. I love learning something while I embark on grand adventures with the characters, and I find myself looking forward to reading about Kitty's next adventures in  Kitty Hawk and the Hunt for Hemingway's Ghost and then, Kitty Hawk and the Icelandic Intrigue.

Book Review: The Mesmer Menace: Gadgets and Gears, Book One by Kersten Hamilton

The Mesmer Menace: Gadgets and Gears is the first book in a new series for middle grade reader written by Kersten Hamilton and illustrations by James Hamilton.  The Amazing Automated Inn is home of twelve-year-old inventor Wally Kennewickett, his genius scientist parents, his dashing dog Noodles, and a pair of snobby cousins. There is a lightning harvester on the roof and labs full of experiments in the dungeon. The inn is the perfect place for a curious boy and his loyal dog to live. Then President Theodore Roosevelt himself calls the elder Kennewicketts away, leaving Wally and Noodles to face the evil Mesmers, the horrible hypnotists bent on controlling the minds of powerful people who the adults are away trying to stop. It seems the inn is their first stop on the way to world domination and only an ingenious boy, a staff of automatons, and a brave dachshund stand in their way!

The Mesmer Menace: Gadgets and Gears is a fun and inventive book told from the perspective of a dachshund. Wally is a young genius with inventions and plans of his own when the President arrives with a plot brewing and great need of help from his family. I love that the family is very different, since everyone is pretty much a genius, but you can still feel the love they have for each other. Noodles is a dog on a mission- the protection and support of young Wally while doing his best to keep the amazing inn and world in order as well. While some of the story's features might not seem new (the intrepid genius, evil plot to take over the world,  and a need for saving the day) might not seem new, I think that the story comes together in a way that is new and exciting for readers. The narrator being a dog might turn off some readers, or make it hard for some to connect with the characters, I found Noodle's voice to be a charming feature of the story. I think the master villain and some of the final confrontation scenes, as well as the cast of automatons and Noodle's unique voice made the novel stand out as something a bit special. I am interested to see where the series goes from here.

The Mesmer Menace: Gadgets and Gears was a middle grade novel that I really enjoyed. It was not the best book I have read; but is was fresh, fun, and a quick read. It was interesting to see a book take on a steampunk like feel for the middle grade set. I think many reluctant readers might just find this series something that could draw them into the reading fold.

Book Review: The Birthday Queen by Audrey and Don Wood

The Birthday Queen is a picturebook written by Audrey Wood and illustrated by Don Wood. Happy Birthday to you! Today is the most exciting day of the year, and the Birthday Queen knows exactly how to fill it with fun surprises! From decorating your home to baking your favorite cake, the Birthday Queen doesn't forget a thing as she creates a party beyond your wildest dreams!  In a sweet, satisfying ending, the amazing woman who made your special birthday party is revealed to be the person who loves you most--your mother!

The Birthday Queen is a wonderful and brightly illustrated picturebook about a wonderful birthday celebration. What does every birthday boy or girl need for a flawless celebration? Well, they need a Birthday Queen working wonders behind the scenes and leading the show. Every parent will see themselves in the role, doing everything they can to ensure a wonderful day for their little ones. Hopefully the book will also remind children just how much those parents do to make their perfect birthday, or any holiday, celebration everything that they want it to be.

The Birthday Queen is a fun and charming picturebook that celebrates not just the joy that comes with celebrating a birthday, but also all the work and love that a parent puts into creating the celebration. A wonderful book to share around any birthday or other celebration to remind parents why we go through so much work to make our little ones happy and remind children that these things do not just happen with out some effort.

Book Review: The Wildlife-Friendly Vegetable Gardener: How to Grow Food in Harmony with Nature by Tammi Hartung

The Wildlife-Friendly Vegetable Gardener: How to Grow Food in Harmony with Nature by Tammi Hartung is a book that can help nature lovers understand how to make their yard and garden friendly to the wildlife around them while still maintaining a vegetable crop of their own. Co-existence

between man, animals, and the insect world is the goal here, and the book offers some great suggestions for working with nature rather than trying to tame it and trying to force it to fit our vision.

The Wildlife-Friendly Vegetable Gardener works to foster understanding and supports working with the surrounding environment instead of continually fighting it. The goal here is to reap a larger harvest with much less stress and effort. Solutions begin with a hardy and healthy garden, creating beneficial relationships through smart planting, attracting helpful insects and pollinators, intentionally creating habitats for wildlife, and much more. My only issue with the book is that most of the idea and issue dealt with are aimed at individuals with large amounts of land. Even mentions of 'smaller' gardening spaces dealt with spaces much larger than what my suburban home offers, however I do know people just a quarter mile away that could make great use of the information. I enjoyed reading about the efforts to work with rather than against nature and despite my very small gardening spaces, there was some information that I fully intend to put to good use this spring.

The Wildlife-Friendly Vegetable Gardener is a wonderful resource to gardeners that have large plots of land and/or have issues with wildlife taking more than they would like of their harvest. Offered solutions are simple and mindful or the greater good and environment.

Early Book Review: Scarlatti's Cat by Nathaniel Lachenmeyer and Carlyn Beccia

Scarlatti's Cat is a historically inspired picturebook written by Nathaniel Lachenmeyer and illustrated by Carlyn Beccia. It is currently scheduled for release on March 1 2014. This picturebook explores the story that the great Italian composer Domenico Scarlatti wrote his most famous piece of music after being inspired by the sound of his cat Pulcinella walking across his harpsichord. In this fun fictionalization of the legend, Pulcinella dreams of being a composer and finally gets his chance after chasing an unwelcome visitor and tumbling onto the instrument.

Scarlatti's Cat is a fun story with charming artwork. I loved the idea of a cat composing music in his head, and wanting to play the harpsichord. I think the look on Scarlatti's face when his cat started playing an original piece of music was perfectly captured, as was his insecurities about being outshone by his own cat. The story is cute, with a surprise ending, and a beautiful collection of artwork. I love these books that offer fun stories while sneaking in some obscure history or culture that we could all stand to9 explore.

I would recommend Scarlatti's Cat for readers of all ages that enjoy animals, music, and simply great stories.Families with ties to music and composing would have particular interest in the story.  I think the book would be at home in both school and public library collections, as well as in home collections.

Early Book Review: Jellaby: The Lost Monster (Jellaby #1) by Kean Soo

Jellaby: The Lost Monster (Jellaby #1) by Kean Soo is a reprint of a graphic novel originally published March 1st 2008. This printing is scheduled for release on March 1 2014. The story follows the quiet Portia, who has just moved to a new neighborhood with her mom. Adjusting to life with a missing father is hard enough, but school is boring and her classmates are standoffish. Even Portia's mom seems distant. Things start looking up when Portia takes a moonlit trip into woods behind her house and discovers a sweet-natured purple monster. Life with Jellaby is a lot more exciting, and leads to another friend and adventures.

Jellaby: The Lost Monster is a well drawn graphic novel that combines a cute monster and serious matters like bullies, a missing father, and neglect. Do not expect answers for any of the issues raised, like just where Portia's father is, or where Jellaby came from, or where the heck Jason's family is. The artwork and storytelling is well done, with a great build up that leaves readers itching to get their hands on the sequel Jellaby: Monster in the City. The art is heavy on the pinks and lavenders, with a very cute feel. In reading more about the creation of the graphic novel (included at the end of the book) I discovered that the colors were used because the book was intended to be in black and white at one point and that particular color palette is the easiest the transfer. I liked the mix of cute images and the introduction to some heavier subject matter and themes, which makes this a graphic navel that will speak to all age groups in different ways.

I would recommend Jellaby: The Lost Monster to readers that enjoy graphic novels that can be enjoyed on several levels and break out of the mold. While this is not the best kid friendly graphic novel I have read lately, I am glad that I picked it up and read it.