Slothilda

Slothilda: Living the Sloth Life by Dante Fabiero
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I read this when I should have been sleeping. It was just too cute and relatable, so I kept going. Sleep is over rated, right?

The illustrations are really cute, and complemented the books text perfectly. After reading Slothilda, I kind of think I'm living the sloth life without actually being a sloth.

I really have nothing bad to say about this book. It's great for a quick pick-me-up.

I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Author: Dante Fabiero
Publisher: Skyhorse Publishing
Publication Date: 02 Oct 2018

View all my reviews

The Third Mushroom

The Third Mushroom by Jennifer L. Holm
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This was a great addition to The Fourteenth Goldfish series. The first one ended in such a way that you could tell more was coming, so I'm glad this did not disappoint. In order to really understand what happens in this book, you have to have read the first one. There is too much backstory that will cause confusion if you try to only read this one.

The Third Mushroom sees Melvin coming back from his time abroad to join Ellie back in middle school and experiment with the specimen mentioned at the end of the first book. This book really focuses on the struggles of being a teenager and growing up in general. The target audience will easily be able to identify with the characters.

Although there wasn't really anything at the end of this book pointing to another one, I kind of want to see what is next for Melvin.

Author: Jennifer L. Holm
Publisher: Random House
Publication Date: September 4th 2018

View all my reviews

Corporate Crap

Corporate Crap: Lessons Learned from 40 Years in Corporate America by Howard Harrison
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

This book was an interesting read, but as a low-level employee, I feel like I did not get as much out of this as I could have. As I was reading, I kept thinking that this would be a great read for those that are in positions of power. It really puts some of the crazy things companies do into perspective. I've had to deal with most of the issues mentioned in the book, so I understood the author's views. There were a few that I have not experienced, and after having read about them, I'm going to cross my fingers that they never happen.

I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Author: Howard Harrison
Publisher: Dog Ear Publishing
Publication Date: 01 Oct 2018

View all my reviews

Book Love

Book Love by Debbie Tung
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

This was a great read, and as a book nerd, I related to all of it. I'm just not sure I would read it all again in this format. Would I post individual parts on Facebook or hang posters of them up on my walls? Absolutely.

If you love books and love comics, this is a great read.

I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Author: Debbie Tung
Publisher: Andrews McMeel Publishing
Publication Date: 01 Jan 2019

View all my reviews

Simon Fayter and the Tomb of Rone

Simon Fayter and the Tomb of Rone by Austin J. Bailey
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This series is hilarious. There are footnotes, which can be hard to pull off in a work of fiction, but they just add to the humor. If you haven't read the first book, you really should before reading this one. This is not a series that can easily be understood if you do not have the backstory.

The characters are great and have developed since the last book, which is what they should do in a series.

These books are great for middle grade readers or those that just want an entertaining story. I will say, the ending of this book had me ready for the next book. I know the author is being awesome and releasing it soon, but I still have some time to wait and wonder what is going to happen next.

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.

Author: Austin J. Bailey
Publication Date: November 22nd 2018

View all my reviews

Royal Crown

Royal Crown by Meg Cabot
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

This book seemed like it could have been a little side story of another one. The plot points that I really wanted to know about happened behind the scenes with Mia and the other adults. The things that happened in the forefront of the story involved babysitting and periods. It just didn't seem like enough to really fill a whole book. I realize that the main characters of this series are not old enough to be part of the big decisions, but I just wanted more of an actual story.

Author: Meg Cabot
Publisher: Feiwel & Friends
Publication Date: August 7th 2018

View all my reviews

Apprenticeship with a Vampire

Apprenticeship With A Vampire by J. Bennett
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I really enjoyed this one. The fact that Nathaniel lets the ghosts do whatever they want with these poor people leads to hilarious situations. I like the ghosts. I like the fact that they are not stereotypical. They have their own special flare that goes along with this series perfectly.

This story really has a lot going on. It makes me wonder what kind of people would answer the ad that Diedre posted. Some of the best parts of this story happen in a small moment outside of the house.

This is really just a fast-paced story that keeps you entertained the whole time.

Author: J. Bennett
Publisher: Smashwords Edition
Publication Date: September 10th 2014

View all my reviews

Frank Einstein and the Brainturbo

Frank Einstein and the Brainturbo by Jon Scieszka
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

This series is a great one for young readers, as an adult, I start to question things that were never meant to be questioned. If you are a reader that starts wondering about things like where all the adults are when things are happening, you will probably have the same issues I did. For kids, especially ones that are into science, this series is great.

Author: Jon Scieszka
Publisher: Turtleback Books
Publication Date: August 11th 2015

View all my reviews

Expelled

Expelled by James Patterson
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This book really held my attention, possibly because I really get into mysteries, I have to know what happened. The other reason the book held my attention was the teaser on the cover. It talks about how being expelled affected Sasha, but for most of the book, it is not clear why. That little teaser was just sitting there as I read the book, waiting to reveal itself. I have to admit, once everything was revealed, I did not see any of it coming.

This is a good read that is not just another light-hearted YA book.

Author: James Patterson and Emily Raymond
Publisher: Little, Brown and Company
Publication Date: October 23rd 2017

View all my reviews

When Vampires and Ninjas Collide

When Vampires and Ninjas Collide by J. Bennett
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

While this was a fun little story, I have to admit, I didn't like this one as much as the others in the series. I think it was because a lot of the action happened between random characters that were not in any of the other stories or Diedre with the Ninjas. There wasn't as much Nathaniel interaction as I would have liked. The Nathaniel parts were great, but I just wanted more of them.

Author: J. Bennett
Publisher: J Bennett
Publication Date: October 25th 2013

View all my reviews

Cogheart

Cogheart by Peter Bunzl
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

This book had an interesting premise and good plot twists, I just couldn't really get into it. I think the books target audience will like this a lot, so just because it wasn't a favorite of mine doesn't mean I wouldn't consider it a good book.

I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Author: Peter Bunzl
Publisher: Jolly Fish Press
Publication Date: 12 Feb 2019

View all my reviews

Duel with the Werefrog

Duel with the Werefrog by J. Bennett
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book in the Vampire's Housekeeper Chronicles introduced some great characters. The characters that make their debut in this story are featured in the other stories, so it is best to read the Chronicles in order.

In Duel with the Werefrog, Nathaniel and Henrick, a werefrog, decide to duel to win the affection of a lady who frequents bingo games. I enjoyed the fact that the creatures in this series are not just your run-of-the-mill ones. It's not a werewolf, but a werefrog, and an old one riding around in a scooter at that.

I like the fact that Deidre was able to see Nathaniel's true colors even if she was unconscious for them. She definitely had an exciting adventure in this story, with a lot of mixed emotions.

Author: J. Bennett
Publisher: J Bennett
Publication Date: September 28th 2012

View all my reviews

It Wasn't Me

It Wasn't Me by Dana Alison Levy
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Mysteries tend to capture my attention, and this book was no different, especially since everyone seemed guilty.

The book is about Theo, who's photos were vandalized twice at school. The principal agrees to let a teacher try a Justice Circle over a week-long school break to find out what happened instead of automatically suspending everyone who may have been involved. The book takes place during the time spent in the Justice Circle. Each day of the week little pieces of information are given about each of the characters, making it difficult to figure out what really happen.

I liked that the characters had some depth to them. None of them were as clear cut as they seemed on the surface. They all had things in their personal lives that they didn't want the others to know about. These secrets created some distrust and confusion as to what really happened.

The ending was slightly predictable, but at the same time, I was surprised. There were mixed emotions when I finished the book. All in all, it was a good YA read.

I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Author: Dana Alison Levy
Delacorte Books for Young Readers
Publication Date: 13 Nov 2018


View all my reviews

The Vampire Hunter Comes to Call

The Vampire Hunter Comes To Call by J. Bennett
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This series cracks me up. You would think that a series with a vampire would be dramatic when a vampire hunter is added, but this is the Vampire's Housekeeper Chronicles, thank you very much. Nothing is ever what it seems.

This story includes Facebook, arthritic knees, and a chess tournament to the death. Really, what more could you want in a book? I highly recommend this entire series.

Author: J. Bennett
Publisher: J Bennett
Publication Date: April 3rd 2012

View all my reviews

Homeroom Diaries

Homeroom Diaries by James Patterson
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

This book was a pretty deep read for something that had illustrations. Those types of books come around every now and then. For me, this is a book that is great for teens, and may even be something that will help them get through hard times, but was something that I think I will only read once. I would still highly recommend it.

I think my biggest issue with this book was the fact that most of the adults were just jerks. I kept wanting to scream at them for the way they were treating Margaret.

I don't know what to say about this book. There is a lot going on, and it is good at evoking emotions. I think it is just one of those books that would be good for everyone to read at least once. There is really something for everyone to get out of it.

Author: James Patterson
Publisher: Arrow (Young)
Publication Date: July 17th 2014

View all my reviews

Royce Rolls

Royce Rolls by Margaret Stohl
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This book was an entertaining read that made me think about what is really going on behind the cameras on all of the reality tv shows that are out there these days. If this book were to have come out before reality tv was pretty much everywhere, I don't think it would have had the impression it did.

Royce Rolls is about a family like the Kardashians that lives their lives in front of a camera. Behind the scenes, things are not what they appear, and getting that look into what was really going on once the cameras turned off was what made the book a good read.

The book is filled with drama and moments when the reader is left wondering what happened. I appreciate that the readers are not given all of the information from the start. Sometimes it's great to read a book and be all-knowing, but this is one of those times when it worked better for the reader to find things out as the story progressed.

I did listen to the audio book version, and I will admit, the thing that made me crack up multiple times was the mispronunciation of the county Sevier. It didn't change the story at all, but coming from someone who grew up in that area, the reader made it sound a lot fancier than it actually is.

Author: Margaret Stohl
Publisher: Freeform
Publication Date: April 4th 2017

View all my reviews

The Rosie Effect

The Rosie Effect by Graeme Simsion
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This was a cute addition to the Don Tillman series. I have to admit, while I did see somethings happening, there were others that took me by complete surprise. Don's way of looking at the world makes it so the reader never really knows what is going to happen next. Things that seem completely logical to him, are unexpected, at least to me. I will say though, the scene on the plane made me think people were over reacting. I guess there are some people who would jump to the conclusions the people in that scene did, but I didn't see anything wrong. Of course, I also knew about the character and the background, so my thoughts might have been different if I did not know that.

For some reason, the part of this book that I enjoyed the most, was Don and Rosie using B.U.D. as a name for the baby. Second favorite part was Don bringing a fake Rosie to events he did not want the real Rosie to know about. That provided great material later on in the book.

Really, there were a bunch of great moments that only Don Tillman would find himself in. I like stepping back from my life and looking at the world from his point of view. I'm glad there is another book in this series so I can see what happens next.

Author: Graeme Simsion
Publisher: Simon Schuster
Publication Date: September 24th 2014

View all my reviews

Princess Decomposia and Count Spatula

Princess Decomposia and Count Spatula by Andi Watson
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I wasn't sure what to expect with this book, but it was pretty cute. Princess Decomposia and Count Spatual is a graphic novel about an overworked princess and the new cook. The illustrations really helped to move the story along and bring a new level to it. Princess Decomposia's father was written in such a way that, as a reader, I could sympathize with the struggles Decomposia and Count Spatula had to deal with.

Author: Andi Watson
Publisher: First Second
Publication Date: February 24th 2015

View all my reviews

The Island of Dr. Libris

The Island of Dr. Libris by Chris Grabenstein
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book gets four stars because I really just want this to be my actual life. It's every bookworm's dream to be able to have adventures with the characters from their favorite books. It was fun to see the interactions between the different all the storybook characters.

This is a book meant for young children, but I enjoyed it, and wish that it was real. I just don't know what characters I would want to have adventures with.

Author: Chris Grabenstein
Publisher: Random House Books for Young Readers
Publication Date: 2015

View all my reviews

Island of Graves

Island of Graves by Lisa McMann
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This series has a lot going on for a Middle Grade read. The characters have depth to them, which I appreciate. It's easier to really enjoy the story when you can see the characters growing as the series goes on.

I expected this book to be like the others and spend a decent amount of time on the island, but I was wrong. Even though there is not a lot of time spent on the island, there is enough to give readers an understanding of what happened on the island. I feel that older readers will like the knowing about this island because of the little details that are provided and the new character that is introduced. This is one of those times when the reader has some knowledge about what is going on that the characters do not. I'm so used to having everything in these books be something new, so it was an interesting flip. It makes me wonder how things are going to play out in the next book.

Island of Graves is a great addition to the Unwanteds series.

Author: Lisa McMann
Publisher: Turtleback Books
Publication Date: September 15th 2015

View all my reviews

Death in the Family

Death in the Family: A Funny Vampire Short Story inThe Vampire's Housekeeper Chronicles Series by J. Bennett
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love a good J. Bennett book. This series is great, along with her Girl with Broken Wings series.

If you're like me, you will start reading The Vampire's Housekeeper Chronicles and not be able to stop.

This short story features Tiffany, a female vampire who also happens to be Nathaniel's sister. The names were very well chosen for this story. Both Nathaniel and Tiffany act like you would expect. No offense to anyone with those names, it's just that Nathaniel is an older name, one set in tradition, and Tiffany is one that is newer and featured in movies as the mean girl or popular girl.

The story line might have been more predictable if the cast of characters didn't also include ghosts, a zombie, a wereferret, and Deidre. I have to say, Deidre is a great model of perseverance. She may look at her poster every night and feel like she is failing, but I would have given up long ago. She just keeps plucking along.

This series is a hilarious read for anyone that is looking for a vampire read that goes against every normal convention.

Author: J. Bennett
Publisher: J Bennett
Publication Date: March 5th 2014


View all my reviews

The Odds of Getting Even

The Odds of Getting Even by Sheila Turnage
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

This book was good, and I love the series, but it wasn't my favorite. Out of the whole book, I like that Mr. Macon's character was developed more. Honestly, I think he was my favorite part of the book.

The reason the book's villains were doing what they were doing was not clear as I was reading, that part was a surprise, but it was clear to me who they were.

As a book for middle-grade readers, it's great. The characters are still wonderful, the plot just didn't work for me. I'm still completely excited to read the next book.

Author: Sheila Turnage
Publisher: Kathy Dawson Books
Publication Date: October 6th 2015

View all my reviews

How You Ruined My Life

How You Ruined My Life by Jeff Strand
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

The story line was great, I just had issues with the characters. I wanted to scream at them the whole time I was reading. Honestly, I'm still not sure what to think about what I read. This may be one that I have to go back to in the future to come to a firm decision on. Right now, it's iffy.

Author: Jeff Strand
Publisher: Sourcebooks Fire
Publication Date: April 3rd 2018

View all my reviews

Nooks & Crannies

Nooks & Crannies by Jessica Lawson
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This book had all sorts of twists and turns that I was not expecting. In one way, the mystery was predictable, and I figured out quickly what was going to happen, but there were parts that surprised me and kept me reading. Because of the surprises, I was okay with the small mysteries that I was able to figure out on my own. This book is for middle grade readers, so it is possible that a younger readers thought process would not lead them down the same path mine did.

This book had a lot going on, and was one of those reads that draws you into the story.

Author: Jessica Lawson
Publisher: Simon Schuster Books for Young Readers
Publication Date: June 2nd 2015

View all my reviews

The Worst Night Ever

The Worst Night Ever by Dave Barry
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

After reading the first book in this series, you think I would have been prepared for this one, but no. There is so much crazy in this book.

It was an interesting read and I liked seeing how the characters handled the situations they were in, it was just too much for me. The villains had a really kind of horrible plan, and it was hard for me to see how anyone, even a villain would think that it was a good idea.

I do really think that this would make a great screenplay. It seems to have a cinematic element to it that makes it enjoyable, it's just not one I will be picking up again.

Author: Dave Barry
Publisher: Disney-Hyperion
Publication Date: April 26th 2016

View all my reviews

Everything, Everything

Everything, Everything by Nicola Yoon
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I decided to read this book because the movie came out and caught my attention. As of right now, I have not actually watched the movie, so my view of the story is based solely on the book.

I have to admit, I wasn't sure what to expect. Having seen the previews for the movie, I thought I knew the premise of the story, but once I hit the ending, I was surprised. I'm really glad that the story wasn't predictable. There was character growth that helped push the story line forward.

I did have an issue with the ending, just because it brought up questions for me. The ending was a shock, but then I sat there and wondered why no one ever thought to question what was going on. Once the hole was poked in the story, it seemed clear to me that the life the mother had created should have fallen apart long before then. I don't know, that might just be my thought.

All-in-all, a good YA book.

Author: Nicola Yoon
Publisher: Delacorte Books for Young Readers
Publication Date: 2015

View all my reviews

Penguins of America

Penguins of America by James Patterson
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

While this book was cute and funny, it's not one that I think I will read again. The illustrations are what really sets this book apart, and I think people that are more into books with fewer words and more illustrations will really enjoy this.

Honestly, you can't go wrong with penguins. They make everything better. I can see everyone enjoying this book, maybe just not over and over, depending on who you are.

Author: James Patterson
Publisher: Little: Brown and Company
Publication Date: 2017

View all my reviews

The Invention of Hugo Cabret

The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

I thought the ending of this book was clever, but it wasn't really a book that I would read again. For its target audience, it is a great read. Children with big imaginations will love it. There is a reason it has won so many children's book awards. It just doesn't hold up as well for an adult. That's okay.

I would recommend this for young readers.

Author: Brian Selznick
Publisher: Scholastic Press
Publication Date: 2007

View all my reviews

Simon vs the Homo Sapiens Agenda

Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda by Becky Albertalli
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

I wish I could give half stars, because this book isn't really a two star book. I only gave it two stars because of the language used. I understand that people swear, that's part of life, but there is a lot of it in this book, and it made it less enjoyable for me.

Aside from the language, I really liked the book. It is a great teen read about figuring out who you are and learning to embrace the things that make you unique. Simon shows that trying to blend in and be like everyone else is not the way to actual happiness. Only when he decided to forget trying to blend in and start being true to himself did he really find joy.

I'm not sure how I feel about having the blackmail threat helping to push the story along. There were times when I was really just annoyed that it was being brought up. I guess that's kind of the point. If the reader can get upset at the character and wish that they would stop what they are doing, it makes the story something they can relate to.

Author: Becky Albertalli
Publisher: Balzer + Bray
Publication Date: April 7th 2015

View all my reviews

Sanity & Tallulah

Sanity & Tallulah by Molly Brooks
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

This book is a graphic novel and a pretty easy read. It just wasn't really my cup of tea. I would have liked some back story, which I know is hard to do with the format it is in.

I really liked Princess, Sparkle, Destroyer of Worlds, even though I'm not a cat person.

The story line was okay, and I think kids that are into science and space will really like this book.

I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Author: Molly Brooks
Publisher: Disney-Hyperion
Publication Date: 16 Oct 2018

View all my reviews

Posted

Posted by John David Anderson
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This was a pretty heavy book, which is something I wasn't expecting with the whole post-it note thing. I appreciate the fact that the author took the idea of writing messages on post-its, which could have just been a really light-hearted story, and really brought some depth into it. It makes it a book that I think teenagers will be able to relate to more than something that just skims the surface of what it is really like to go to school feeling different than those around you. I love the idea of finding your tribe.

The events of the story take place when phones are banned in school, and the students start using post-it notes stuck to lockers, hallways, and passed in class to send messages to each other. Like most things, everything starts out fine, but soon the dark underbelly arises, and bullies that are two cowardly to do anything in person find power in the little anonymous notes. It's something I could almost tell was going to happen, but I was not prepared for what happened after the bullies appeared. I think that showing the aftermath, showing what happens after the bullies is something a lot of teenagers, and really everyone, needs to see.

I also learned one very important lesson, if you can make an origami fish, you can call it anything you like, and it will magically be that thing. Now I just have to learn how to make a fish.

Author: John David Anderson
Publisher: Walden Pond Press
Publication Date: May 2nd 2017

View all my reviews

Mr. Lemoncello's Great Library Race

Mr. Lemoncello's Great Library Race by Chris Grabenstein
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Before I get started with my actual review, a note. Although Kyle is the main character, let's be real, the two kids that start the race and leave part way through because they find a book sale, are the true heroes. They are me in book form.

In this third installment of the Mr. Lemoncello's Library series, the kids are given a chance to compete in another one of Mr. Lemoncello's crazy competitions. Those fighting against our heroes are of course Charles and his mother, but also a couple new characters, rival game makers who have struggled to compete with Mr. Lemoncello's games.

I have to admit, I was really annoyed by Kyle at the beginning of the book. He was so focused on himself and believing he was right without considering those he was working with. I wanted to knock some sense into him and make him act like a team player. While it was annoying, it did give him a chance to grow as a character, and I was glad to see that Chris Grabenstein took that opportunity.

I used to say that I wanted a library like the one in the books, but now that I've read about Mr. Lemoncello's house and plane, I kind of just want to be his friend and have access to everything he invents. If only he was not a fictional character.

I like that once again, readers cannot say for certain who is on what side from the start. As the book progresses, alliances seem to change as you learn more about someone. This gives the book an unpredictable quality that I enjoyed. I will say though, for a town that was determined to not be embarrassed again by making a huge mistake, especially when it came to Mr. Lemoncello, they were really stuck in their ways and so sure they were right. I think that was my one point that was hard to get past. To me, I would think they would actually want to try and look at all the facts before automatically believing someone.

As always, I loved all the literary references, and had to smile every time I found one.

All in all, an good read.

Author: Chris Grabenstein
Publisher: Random House Books for Young Readers
Publication Date: October 10th 2017

View all my reviews

Gillbert #1

Gillbert #1 by Art Baltazar
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Gillbert is the story of a baby sea creature that discovers something from the human world, a message in a bottle, and wants to know what it says. Before he has a chance to, things start happening. He meets a mermaid who shows him the wonders of the ocean deep below anywhere he has ever traveled before, and introduces him to new friends.

While Gillbert is having new adventures, his parents are having new experiences of their own, and try to figure out how to deal with the changes happening to their world.

The story was cute and the drawings were cute, but one question remains, what was written on the letter?

I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Author: Art Baltazar
Publisher: Papercutz
Publication Date: 30 Oct 2018

View all my reviews

Mr. Lemoncello's Library Olympics by Chris Grabenstein
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I always enjoy the Mr. Lemoncello's Library series because there are all these little nods to other books, and I like to see how many of them I can spot. Also, I just really wish the library was real and in my town.

In this book, kids all over the country want their chance to prove themselves against the winners from the first book, so a new game is declared, library Olympics. Part of me thinks I would love to be a part of this, and part of me, after having read this book, realizes that I know absolutely nothing that would qualify me to enter. These kids are smart. The ones that are chosen not only know a lot about what happens in different books, I could do that, but they know the Dewey decimal system backwards and forwards, and can solve rebus puzzles in no time. It's those last two that get me.

Charles, who was the sour loser in the first book is back, with an annoying addition. He makes for a good adversary just because of how annoying he is. Really, how can someone hold a grudge for as long as he does? It has to be a record of some kind.

There were a lot of new characters, which I always find hard to keep straight, but Chris Grabenstein did a good job of really focusing on the characters that mattered and just mentioning the others in passing. It helped move the story forward without bogging it down with a lot of unnecessary dialog or action.

As the book was coming to a close, before everything was brought to light, I was kind of getting anxiety. I think that anyone who really loves books will get a little worried with the way things are progressing close to the end, especially lovers of banned books.

All in all, a good book that was another enjoyable read.

Author: Chris Grabenstein
Publisher: Random House Books for Young Readers
Publication Date: January 5th 2016

View all my reviews

Miss Ellicott's School for the Magically Minded

Miss Ellicott's School for the Magically Minded by Sage Blackwood
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I decided to read this book after reading Jinx, by the same author. I have to say, this book did not go the way I thought it would. Part of me is wondering if the bad guys were really bad, or just misguided. I'm sure at some point there was someone who was really not a good person, but I'm not sure it was anyone in the story. With the approved books and the revised history, it seems like maybe they just didn't know better.

There were a lot of characters, and some of them got lost to me. What I mean by that is that when the character was mentioned as doing something that apparently was not out of the ordinary, I couldn't remember where that character had been introduced, and the facts about them that would help me put everything into perspective. They were the smaller side characters, so it wasn't as important that I remember all the details about them, but it did happen a couple times.

All in all, it was a good read, with dragons, magic, kings, and queens. It's a good fantasy novel for kids reading chapter books.

Author: Sage Blackwood
Publisher: Katherine Tegen Books
Publication Date: March 21st 2017

View all my reviews

Greetings From Witness Protection

Greetings from Witness Protection! by Jake Burt
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I really think I bought this book based on the title and the cover, so good job on those. I judge books by their covers all the time, I can't help it.

The book started off okay, but the more I read, the more I was pulled into the story. By the time I was a few chapters from the end, I was sitting there thinking that someone was going to die, and having to force myself to put the book down to get other things done. By the end, I was really satisfied with how things had turned out, and happy with my purchase.

This is a great book for middle-grade readers on up. I enjoyed it immensely, and I can guarantee I am not part of the target demographic. It's a fun read that picks up the pace as it goes so you are sucked into the story.

Author: Jake Burt
Publisher: Feiwel & Friends
Publication Date: October 3rd 2017

View all my reviews

The Worst Class Trip Ever

The Worst Class Trip Ever by Dave Barry
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This was a really enjoyable read. I really thought I knew how everything was going to play out, or at least the general way things were going to play out, but I was wrong, I was very wrong. Being wrong is what made it fun. I like the fact that the ending surprised me and things happened that I was not expecting. It's books like this that make reading a fun activity.

Possibly the thing that makes this book great is the fact that the narrator is a middle school boy. He is at the age where he is not sure of what he is doing, but still wants to look confident and cool because he is trying to impress girls.

There were a lot of characters, but for the most part, I was able to keep them separate in my mind, which is something I struggle with. I will say, I believe the true hero of this book is the cab driver. The guy needs his own story. If there was ever a side character to look up to, it would be him.

Author: Dave Barry
Publisher: Disney-Hyperion
Publication Date: May 5th 2015

View all my reviews

Going Postal

Going Postal (Discworld, #33; Moist von Lipwig, #1) tobecombined by Terry Pratchett
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book made me laugh, not only because it was funny, but because everyone that has issues with the word moist will find this book to be something of a struggle. I would like to apologize for laughing at your discomfort, but Terry Pratchett is the one who named his main character Moist. I'm just doing my duty and giving everyone fair warning.

The book is about Moist being asked to be the Postmaster for Ankh-Morpork, even though no one has actually sent anything in the mail in a very long time. Moist quickly wonders what he has gotten himself into, and takes on the daunting task of getting the mail delivered after it has been in the post office for so long that it is possible not everyone is still alive.

The characters are great, and include some villains that are maybe not the smarts people in Ankh-Morpork, but they try really hard.

A couple of my favorite lines to end the review.

"Gilt and Vetinari shared a look. It said: While I loathe you and every aspect of your personal philosophy to a depth unplummable by any line, I’ll credit you at least with not being Crispin Horsefry."

"ALWAYS REMEMBER that the crowd that applauds your coronation is the same crowd that will applaud your beheading. People like a show."

Author: Terry Pratchett
Publisher: HarperTorch
Publication Date: 2004

View all my reviews

Jacky Ha-Ha

Jacky Ha-Ha by James Patterson
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Jacky Ha-Ha was a fun uplifting book that readers of all ages will enjoy. The illustrations added just the right amount of whimsical to make the story come alive.

The book deals with a lot of issues that face kids as they deal with school and home life. There were some moments where I was shaking my head wanting to stop Jacky from doing something that I could tell would not end well, but like any middle schooler, she has ideas of her own, and thinking things through before acting is not always what happens. There were other times when I thought she was completely justified in her actions, and was cheering her on. Basically, she acted like any kid her age, which made her someone kids can relate to.

The ending was good. It could have gone in a different way, and I'm glad that was not the case. All in all, it was a book I would recommend to anyone looking to read a light-hearted, feel-good, family story.

Author: James Patterson and Chris Grabenstein
Publisher: jimmy patterson
Publication Date: 2016

View all my reviews

The Mystery of Ireland's Eye

The Mystery of Ireland's Eye by Shane Peacock
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This book did not go the way I thought it would. It seemed like a great adventure story about going to Ireland's Eye and figuring out the mystery surrounding it. Clearly, my thoughts were heavily influenced by the title. I did not expect the suspense that was created when the island is seen through Dylan's eyes.

I will admit, even as an adult, I was kept on the edge of my seat wondering how everything would end.

I'm not sure if I will read the other books in the series, but this was a good read.

I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Author: Shane Peacock
Publisher: Viking
Publication Date: 1999

View all my reviews

Death By Cliche

Death by Cliché 2: The Wrath of Con by Bob Defendi
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

As is still the case with my review of Death by Cliché, I still have never played a game like the one in the series, so there are some things that I do not understand, and yet, I find this series hilarious and keep reading. In other words, just because you have no clue what is going on when game references are mentioned, doesn't mean you won't enjoy the book. I especially like the chapter quotes, and feel that the book would not be the same without them.

The villain in this installment is the Weatherman, who has gained control of an artifact and crazy minions.

This book is filled with humor and great moments that will leave you ready for the next book.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Author: Bob Defendi
Publisher: Curiosity Quills Press
Publication Date: October 10th 2017

View all my reviews

Brooklyn's Most Wanted

Brooklyn's Most Wanted: The Top 100 Criminals, Crooks and Creeps from the County of the Kings by Craig McGuire
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

This book lists 100 criminals that have come out of Brooklyn. Since I don't follow the news coming out of there, and a lot of the people featured in this book had their hay day before I was born or when I was very young, I had never heard of most of them. There were some crazy stories that made me wonder how Brooklyn and the surrounding areas are not under some sort of martial law. Mobsters being gunned down at a local restaurant would make me think twice about going anywhere in the area.

In a way, I wanted a chart showing the relationships between some of the mobsters. There were a few that were connected, but with so many names and stories, it was hard for me to remember who was who and be able to get the full story of what happened straight in my head. Of course, with the way the connections were, I'm not really sure how a chart would have been created, so maybe it would have just made everything more confusing.

For me, the ranking seemed a little weird. There were people that I considered not as bad that were ranked pretty high up on the list, while ones that had done some horrible things were lower down. The number one person, earned his spot, and the thought of him may possibly give me nightmares for years to come.

All in all, it was an interesting read, and if you like non-fiction crime, this book is a great read. This is just one that I'm not sure I would read a second time.

I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Author: Craig McGuire
Publisher: WildBlue Press
Publication Date: June 20th 2017

View all my reviews

El Deafo

El Deafo by Cece Bell
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

El Deafo is the story of Cece growing up with hearing loss and having to use a special hearing aid to hear at school. The book is written in the format of a comic, which helps to pull the reader in and help them really understand how each of the characters is feeling in a situation.

This book does a good job of showing children, and really adults, that differences are not something to be upset about or a reason to treat someone badly, they are what makes us who we are, and can bring us closer to others as they learn more about us.

The Sonic Ear creates a lot of funny moments in this book, but it also created problems when Cece tried to figure out how to fit in. I hope that children reading this book realize that just because you may not be outright laughing in someone's face, does not mean that you are actually treating them well. It's hard for most people to really figure out who is just acting nice, and who is being a true friend. Cece has the added difficulty of wondering if people will always treat her differently because of her hearing loss.

The whole story is something I feel everyone can relate to, even if you have no physical disability or limitation. We all just want to feel included and have someone understand us. Of course, we can't all be cool and have a superpower like El Deafo.

Author: Cece Bell
Publisher: Harry N. Abrams
Publication Date: September 2nd 2014

View all my reviews

A Woman of Integrity

A Woman of Integrity by J. David Simons
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

This is one of those books that I feel you have to really be paying attention to as you read. I ended up being confused trying to remember who was who and what time period they were in. It was an interesting read and had its moments, I just kept getting confused by the characters relationships and places in history. A reader who is better at paying close attention will enjoy this book.

I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Author: J. David Simons
Publisher: Freight Books
Publication Date: 16 Mar 2017

View all my reviews

Mother, Can You Not?

Mother, Can You Not? by Kate Friedman-Siegel
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I don't even know what to say about this book. Read it, laugh, remember there is good in the world, follow her on twitter, wish your mother was this cool, laugh some more.

Author: Kate Friedman-Siegel
Publisher: Crown Archetype
Publication Date: April 5th 2016

View all my reviews

Sidekicked

Sidekicked by John David Anderson
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

Sidekicked is a super hero story with a twist. Actually, multiple twists, which makes it an enjoyable read because you can't predict what is going to happen.

I really liked the concept, and the characters were great. For me, parts of the story line were confusing. I understand that it is fiction, and it does not have to follow reality, but sometimes it seemed too unrealistic.

For kids that like super heroes and dream of being one, this is a good read.

Author: John David Anderson
Publisher: Walden Pond Press
Publication Date: June 25th 2013

View all my reviews

Nightmare at the Book Fair

Nightmare at the Book Fair by Dan Gutman
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Usually, I read these types of books and think about how great they would be if I was ten, but at thirty, they just are not what I am looking for, this book is not like that. For me, I liked the thought that you could travel into many different types of books and really get a chance to live in them for a time. Let's be honest, how many of us have dreamed about being able to join our favorite literary heroes on their journeys?

Yes, this book is for elementary age children, and yes, it is probably best that way, but having a main character do something you've always wanted to do, makes it worth a read.

Author: Dan Gutman
Publisher: Simon Schuster Books for Young Readers
Publication Date: July 29th 2008

View all my reviews

The Amulet of Samarkand

The Amulet of Samarkand by Jonathan Stroud
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This book took the idea of the magician's apprentice and turned it on it's head just a bit. But, on top of changing the idea, what happens when the magician you are apprenticed to is mean and maybe not that bright? That is the problem that faces Nathaniel as he tries to show that he has what it takes to be great.

After reading the first book in this series, I'm trying to decide if I will read the rest of them. It's still up in the air at this moment in time.

Author: Jonathan Stroud
Publisher: Hyperion/Miramax
Publication Date: September 30th 2003

View all my reviews

The Rosie Project

The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

The characters in this story were well developed, which I appreciated greatly. There was a lot of humor throughout, but it was dry humor, which some people may not get, but others, like myself, find hilarious.

I'm glad this is a series so that I can watch the characters grow more.

Author: Graeme Simsion
Publisher: Simon Schuster
Publication Date: January 30th 2013

View all my reviews

The Landry News

The Landry News by Andrew Clements
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

The Landry News is a Andrew Clements great. Pretty much all of his books are great for elementary age kids who are reading chapter books. The only reason I gave it two stars is because this book really only fits for the age it is intended for, which is not a bad thing, it just means that I most likely will not be reading it again. Kids that are reading chapter books will probably enjoy this story immensely. Really, I would recommend any Andrew Clements book to kids that are wanting to find great chapter books.

Author: Andrew Clements
Publisher: Atheneum Books for Young Readers
Publication Year: 1999

View all my reviews