The Abandoned Theater (Aldreland Series) by Dana Robertson

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

Book Details:

Title: The Abandoned Theater (Aldreland Series)

Author: Dana Robertson

Genre: Middle grade fiction, Children's Fantasy

Publisher: Our Street Books

Print length: 184 pages

Source: A free review copy from the author

Blurb:

Deep in the woods of the Winnodov property sits the abandoned theater. Something mysterious happened during the last performance there - the same night Mr. Winnodov disappeared. Eight years later, it's happening again. 

A group of mischievous teenagers sneaks into the theater. And now, one is missing. When 12-year-old Beth Shoner learns who the missing teen is, she sets off with two friends to find him. But what they discover is more astonishing than they could ever have imagined. 

Now, Beth must defeat an evil plan unleashed long ago that threatens to destroy countless worlds, including their own.

Purchase Link:

Amazon

My Review:

This is a middle-grade fantasy story, and it is the first part in the series. A group of teenagers visits an abandoned theater to search for their missing friend, only to enter a magical world through a portal. 

The story is magical, with fantasy elements that are enjoyable to middle school kids. My son, who is in 5th grade, loved the story. Kids who love Percy Jackson and Arushi kind of stories will love this series.

The story is fun with twists. The characters are cool teenage kids like Beth and Tina. Beth learns some unexpected news about her family and lineage after entering the portal. All kids, together with their friends, can overcome problems and can come back to their world safely. 

I love that the story shows friendship and helping each other. I enjoyed the twists in the story. Loved the characterization. The book cover and title are apt. 

What might have been better?

For me, the information after they enter the portal is overwhelming. I didn't like that everyone around Beth tries to hide her lineage until the last minute. I felt that the way the information about other worlds and the background is revealed it might have been better.

My Rating: 4/5

PS: I received a review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Until next time,

 

The Book of Kindness by Egor Klopenko - [Book review]

Book Details:

Title: The Book of Kindness

Author: Egor Klopenko

Genre: Children's books, Children's literature

Publisher: Independently Published

Print Length: 32 pages

Reading Age: 3 to 9 yrs

Source: A review copy from the author

Blurb:

The Book of Kindness by Egor Klopenko is a heartfelt selection of poetic stories for young children, using vivid imagery and simple language to introduce themes of compassion and generosity. Through memorable scenes and characters—like the magical imaginary birds called “kindwings” fluttering around town spreading kindness, and the little girl, whose seeds of kindness turn into a flower—Klopenko helps young readers understand empathy in a relatable way.

 The book emphasizes family dynamics, presenting universal figures such as “Mommy,” “Daddy,” and “the little girl” or “the little boy” to ensure any child can see themselves reflected in the stories. A key strength is Klopenko’s ability to connect shared themes across different tales. This subtle storytelling approach helps young readers build cognitive skills by recognizing how similar values appear in different contexts. 

Thoughtful, universal, and filled with warmth, The Book of Kindness offers more than just heartwarming tales; it fosters early learning, empathy, and a growing understanding of kindness in the world around them.

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

Purchase Link:

Amazon

My Review:

This is the first book in the series of 'The World of Kindness", but can be read and enjoyed separately. I loved this amazing collection of short stories, which explains kindness in simple words with multiple examples.

This is a good bedtime read for kids, especially those aged above 5 years. We need kindness in this world to reduce mental health issues and make our Earth a better place for our future generation. 

I love the way the author explains different ways of showing kindness, lifting up others, and making others cheerful. The illustrations are excellent. Beautiful pictures show every act of kindness so that it's easy for kids to imagine how a kind world would be. The narrative is easy-going and simple. The book cover is good, but not as good as the illustrations inside.

I would definitely recommend this book as a gift option for kids aged 5 to 10 years.

My Rating: 5/5

PS: I received a review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Until next time,

Lenny The Little Explorer - A Day of Adventure by Milo Rivers - [Book Review]

 Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

Book Details:

Title: Lenny The Little Explorer - A Day of Adventure

Author: Milo Rivers

Genre: Children's Picture Book, Children's Fiction

Publisher: Independently published

Print Length: 27 pages

Recommended Age: Baby to 4 yrs

Source: A copy from the author for review

Blurb:

Join Lenny, the lovable little fox, on his exciting journey through the forest in this heartwarming adventure! Perfect for toddlers and preschoolers, "Lenny the Little Explorer" is a beautifully illustrated story that sparks imagination, curiosity, and a sense of wonder.

This gentle, feel-good story, with its soft pastel illustrations and friendly characters, encourages young readers to be brave, kind, and adventurous, just like Lenny. Ideal for bedtime reading or quiet afternoons, "Lenny the Little Explorer" is sure to become a family favorite.

Key Features:

Engaging story perfect for ages 1-4
Interactive moments that invite children to participate in the adventure
Gentle life lessons about friendship, curiosity, and courage
Soft pastel illustrations with a warm, childlike fantasy feel

Whether you’re introducing your child to the joy of reading or looking for a magical new story for your collection, "Lenny the Little Explorer" is a charming tale that kids will want to read again and again!

Purchase Link:

Amazon

My Review:

This is about the little fox Lenny. She ventures out beyond the meadow to explore for a day-long adventure. She meets a wise Owl, a squirrel, and a bunny.

There are some good life lessons and skills to learn from her new friends for Lenny.  

What do I like about the book?

The cute and lively pictures—wow, the expressions on faces are so clear—the innocent but brave Lenny, the silly squirrel, and the cute bunny. The illustrations and the pastel colors are a big plus for this book.

I love that the story imbues the importance of making new relationships and helping strangers.

Lenny is not only a curious fox but also transparent and helpful to others. This book is perfect for bedtime reading and is good for little kids up to 4 years age.  

The title is apt, and the book cover is very nice. 

My Rating: 5/5

PS: I received a review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Until next time,

Amy's Travels by Lilly Khripko - [Book Review]

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

Book Details:

Title: Amy's Travels

Author: Lilly Khripko

Genre: Children's Picture Book, Children's Fiction

Publisher: Quick Home Ltd (July 19, 2024)

Print Length: 40 pages

Recommended Age: 6 to 10 yrs

Source: A copy from the author for review

Blurb:

This tale is about a tweenage girl retelling her baby life. When she was young, her family made the decision to leave their native country. They looked long and hard to find another residence somewhere else.

The little family had to suffer without food and a place to stay. Eventually, they found a good shelter to stay at. Just when things starting to look up, the father got offered a job from a different continent, so he had to move away. The girl formed close bonds with a kangaroo, a friend, and even a tuba!

Purchase Link:

Amazon

My Review:

This story is about a little girl 4.5 years old, her family, her move to Australia, and making new friends, etc., This is kind of a biography from the perspective of a child.

You get the drift when I say from the perspective of the child. Children at that age say everything they feel without a filter. That's what it feels like reading the book. 

Even though Amy is a little child of 4.5 years of age, she behaves maturely in some places like not crying hard which might make her parents feel bad when they are already sad, and trying to figure out the solution to their problems.

 She behaves like a child in some places like crying immediately after her dad gets into flight, feeling comfortable hugging her mom, and thinking everything will become normal with her reassurance. 

What do I like about the book?

The writing style is spontaneous and sometimes shows her anger and frustration when things don't go as expected. It is written by a kid and definitely it gives you a peek into the kids' emotions. 

The writing feels genuine and honest. There is no sugarcoating of characters and no detailed unnecessary descriptions. This is suitable for kids aged 6 to 10 years.

What might have been better? 

For adults and teen kids, this might not look that appealing. If you want to read something about the perspective of a little child, this seems good though. But, if you are expecting a story with twists and fiction, this is not right for you.

The book cover is great and the title is ok. I thought the title might have been different because based on the title I was expecting Amy to travel to many places or her experience with different cultures/ people. But, the story is not mainly about travel. It is about the family, relationships, struggles, money problems, settling into a new place, etc.,

I thought it might have been categorized /edited well. It is divided into parts, but a few parts are too small and a few are big. This feels like a journal note. 

My Rating: 4/5

PS: I received a review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Until next time,

Why like Flies by Carol Haden - [Book review]

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

Book Details:

Title: Why Like Flies

Author: Carol Haden

Genre: Children's Picture Book, Children's Fiction

Publisher: Austin Macauley (July 19, 2024)

Print Length: 52 pages

Recommended Age: 5 to 7 yrs

Source: A copy from the author for review

Blurb:

Step into a world where the unappealing becomes fascinating and the misunderstood finds a voice. Join Flyboy on a transformative journey as he uncovers the hidden truths behind creatures often deemed unsightly or fearsome. 

Through his encounters with much-maligned allies, Flyboy challenges the notion that first impressions tell the whole story. 

As he delves into the lives of flies and other oft-maligned creatures, Flyboy discovers a wealth of positive attributes and captivating facts that challenge preconceived notions. 

This enlightening tale encourages readers to approach the unknown with an open mind, embracing curiosity and the potential for newfound appreciation.

Purchase Link:

Amazon

My Review:

In this picture book, a fly called Flyboy is disappointed that no one respects him and tries to harm him, even though flies help pollinate flowers. His mom sends him to different insects, birds, and creatures to ask their advice. 

This is a good story for little kids to teach them about the different kinds of creatures on the Earth, how they each contribute to mother nature, and how removing any species is not good overall.  

The pictures are adorable, and the colors are so bright. Kids will love watching them. 

I love that they also talk about the balance of nature and how every creature helps with this. 

The last poem might be too hard for kids to understand, but overall, it's an interesting plot. 

The book cover is gorgeous, and the title is ok.

My Rating: 5/5

PS: I received a review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Until next time,

Would You Rather? Junior: Super Silly Edition! by Zeitgeist - [Book review]

 

 Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

Book Details:

Title: Would You Rather? Junior: Super Silly Edition!

Author: Zeitgeist 

Genre: Children's Activity Books, Question and Answer books

Publisher: Z Kids

Print Length: 128 pages

Recommended Age : 5 to 8 yrs

Source: A copy from the publisher for review

Blurb:

Laugh along with your child with over 200 silly “Would You Rather?” questions for ages 5–8!

Nothing’s better than laughing out loud with your child! And these silly “Would You Rather?” questions are designed to make you both giggle (and reveal how your child thinks!). Whether you’re choosing a taco filled with frog legs or lizard toes or wondering if sleeping in an amusement park or a toy store would be more fun, Would You Rather? Junior: Super Silly Edition! taps into the silliness that makes kids giggle.

• Kick around 200 entertaining “Would You Rather?” questions that will make your child laugh, think, and stay off screens.
• Engage your child’s imagination with funny, age-appropriate questions for the younger crowd.
• Help your child read with engaging questions in a large font designed for early readers.
• A great way to pass time at restaurants, on a car trip, or at a doctor’s office.
• Makes the perfect gift for birthdays and holidays for the children in your life.

This first book in our new Would You Rather? Junior series—like all the books in the popularWould You Rather? companion series for older kids—is creative, hilarious fun for the whole family!

Purchase Link:

Amazon

My Review:

I read a Kindle copy of the book. This book has 200 questions like Would you rather do this or that? We can ask these questions to elementary age kids; kids below 8 years might love these funny questions. A few questions are silly and fun, but a few are uncomfortable food combinations or similar things.

one example - Would you rather have broccoli growing out of your nose or flowers?

I love the questions that are conversation-starters like these -

Would you rather climb a tree in a snow suit or run a race without shoes?

Would you rather have lightning indoors or thunder?

I would have loved it if the book had more pictures to engage kids and help them imagine the situations. There are a few small drawings, though, which are cute.

This book is also good to carry while traveling long distances in the car with elementary-age kids. It is a good way to pass the time. 

Thanks, Zeitgeist (@zeitgeistpublishing), for the free review copy!

My Rating: 4/5

PS: I received a review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Until next time,

Helping Emerson like the dark by Martin Chaney - [Book Review]

 Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

Book Details:

Title: Helping Emerson like the dark

Author: Martin Chaney

Genre: Children's Books, Anxiety and Phobias

Publisher: Independently published (Nov 2024)

Print Length: 85 pages

Recommended Age : 7 to 10 yrs

Source: A copy from the author for review

Blurb:

Book 1 in The Chaney Twins series is about overcoming fear of the dark.

Join Emerson as he learns to conquer his fear and discover the fun things that can be done in the dark. Set in the home of the Chaney twins, this heartwarming story follows Emerson’s struggle with his fear of the dark and the unexpected help he receives from his grandparents. Emerson’s fear is put to the test with a fun-filled day. From playing mini golf to stargazing during the day, Emerson’s grandparents show him that the dark can be exciting and full of surprises.

Why should you choose this book?Not only is it an entertaining read for kids ages 8 to 11, but it also provides a valuable lesson on coping with fears and stress.

Through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, mindfulness, and relaxation techniques, this book offers practical tools for children to overcome their fears and worries.
It's the perfect read-aloud story for parents to bond and open up a conversation about fears and anxieties with their child.


Add this book to your cart and let the Chaney Twins entertain your child.

Purchase Link:

Amazon

My Review:

This is the first book released as part of the Chaney Twins series. This specific book talks about the twin brother Emerson and his fear of darkness. You have to read the book to know about Grandpa, Grandma, and Hudson's plan to make Emerson feel normal and comfortable even in the dark.

They introduce him to the beautiful things that can be enjoyed in the dark.  

What I love about this book:

It's not a simple Children's book with pictures. It is good for kids aged 7 to 10 years.

It is very common for kids to have a fear of darkness at this age. So, it comes in handy to the parents to make them gradually comfortable staying in the dark without fear. 

Grandma and Grandpa are very mature and loving characters. I love how they coordinate together for the activities they take the twins to. It gives off good family vibes.

The writing style is not preachy; it's easygoing. 

The book cover is great and apt. The title is exactly to the point. I will look forward to the next books in the series. 

My Rating: 5/5

PS: I received a review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Until next time,

Careful What You Hear by Helen Dunlap Newton - [Book Review]

 Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

Book Details:

Title: Careful What You Hear

Author: Helen Dunlap Newton

Genre: Action and Adventure / Sci Fi

Publisher: Yorkshire Publishing

Print Length: 214 pages

Source: A copy from the publisher for review

Blurb:

After a surgical mix-up gave 13-year-old Noah Baker mind reading powers, he became a spy tasked with stopping the bad guys.

Ever since he accidentally got an experimental cochlear implant, Noah and his secret agent partner, Lena, have been going on secret missions for the government. Now, they're in for a reward for all their hard work-Space Camp! But all is not as it seems. When Noah accidentally overhears thoughts that reveal a plot to steal top secret plans from nearby Redstone Arsenal, he must make a choice.

From award-winning author and educator, Helen Dunlap Newton, Careful What You Hear is an engaging middle-grade read.

Purchase Link:

Amazon

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Careful-What-You-Hear-Book-ebook/dp/B0DSJVYR9W/

https://www.amazon.com/Careful-What-You-Hear-Book-ebook/dp/B0DSJVYR9W/

My Review:

This middle-grade fiction is about 2 teenagers Lena and Noah who are helping in a government secret mission. This is part 2 of a sequel. 

There are connections to part 1 about an incident in New York on how they were kidnapped in a secret mission, but this book can be read independently.

Lena and Noah are sent to an interesting space camp with 2 secret agents protecting them. Lena is excited to learn about cyber programs while Noah wants to learn flight simulation. But, their space camp fun is disrupted by a dangerous plot. 

Noah and Lena are depicted as perfect teenagers struggling to learn details about secret missions and enjoying their lives in the middle of all the tension. The writing style is engaging and not wordy. The plot has its twists and I loved it. Kids will have fun reading it. It has some action as well. 

The book cover is great and well-designed, apt for the story. 

I would recommend this to young readers between the ages of 9 to 13 years. 

My Rating: 5/5

PS: I received a review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

About the Author:

Award-winning author Helen Dunlap Newton is a veteran middle grade language arts teacher and a member of the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators. Both her first novel, Night of the Amber Moon, and Do You Hear What I Hear? were finalists for the Oklahoma Book Award and earned her the Creative Women of Oklahoma Award. 

As an educator with over 30 years of experience, she understands the power of literature to help children understand themselves and the world around them. Now she inspires them to enter the world of books, not only through her writing but through her author visits to classrooms and libraries. In addition to writing, Newton enjoys reading, music, and helping her husband care for backyard chickens and an energetic Australian shepherd in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

Social Media Links – @newtonhelendunlap (Insta) and Helen Dunlap Newton (FB)

Until next time,

Dragons Can't Eat Snow Cones by Amanda Sobokta - [Book Review]

 Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

Book Details:

Title: Dragons Can't Eat Snow Cones: (A Playful Rhyming Adventure with a Fiery Twist)

Author: Amanda Sobokta

Genre: Children's Fiction

Reading Age : 2 yrs and Up

Publisher: Applesauce press

Print Length: 40 pages

Source: A free review copy from the publisher

Blurb:

Delicious snow cones and fire-breathing dragons don’t really mix – but don’t tell that to this dragon. With whimsical illustrations and a heart-warming story on the power of not giving up, Dragons Can’t Eat Snow Cones will delight readers of all ages!

Who can blame a dragon for wanting a cool and refreshing snow cone? They come in so many different flavors and colors! Sadly, as soon as the tasty treat is within reach, it melts. This dragon, however, will not give up.

After trying all it can think of to indulge in the slushy confection, the dragon seeks the advice of a colorful variety of friends. However, the chilly penguin, industrious squirrels, parrot pirate, and cave-dwelling bat just can't seem to help. Still no snow cone.

Will the dragon ever taste a flavorful snow cone that doesn’t turn to slush? Kids of all ages will enjoy this tale of persistence and see tenacity in action in our scaly hero.

Purchase Link:

Amazon

My Review:

The central idea of the book is fun! Can dragons eat snow cones? Oops! The snow cone will melt before the dragon can taste due to the fire in its mouth. Isn't it?

Then, what should the dragon do? In this story, dragon asks his friends for suggestions and he tries all the ways. But, what happens at the end? You have to read to know.

It's a fun picture book to read at bedtime for little kids, especially 2 yrs to 5 years age. The story introduces animals and birds and their funny ideas. Some are really thoughtful, you know?

I really enjoyed reading this book. I would recommend it as a bedtime read for little kids. Unlike the other story books which finish quickly, it's lengthier. The illustrations are great and relevant.

My Rating: 5/5

Until next time,

Lady Tan's Circle of Women by Lisa See - [Book Review]

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

Book Details:

Title: Lady Tan's Circle of Women

Author: Lisa See

Genre: Historical Fiction

Publisher: Scribner

Print Length: 368 pages

Source: A copy from the library

Blurb:

From “one of those special writers capable of delivering both poetry and plot” (The New York Times Book Review) an immersive historical novel inspired by the true story of a woman physician in 15th-century China—perfect for fans of Lisa See’s classics Snow Flower and the Secret Fan and The Tea Girl of Hummingbird Lane.

According to Confucius, “an educated woman is a worthless woman,” but Tan Yunxian—born into an elite family, yet haunted by death, separations, and loneliness—is being raised by her grandparents to be of use. Her grandmother is one of only a handful of female doctors in China, and she teaches Yunxian the pillars of Chinese medicine, the Four Examinations—looking, listening, touching, and asking—something a man can never do with a female patient.

From a young age, Yunxian learns about women’s illnesses, many of which relate to childbearing, alongside a young midwife-in-training, Meiling. The two girls find fast friendship and a mutual purpose—despite the prohibition that a doctor should never touch blood while a midwife comes in frequent contact with it—and they vow to be forever friends, sharing in each other’s joys and struggles. No mud, no lotus, they tell themselves: from adversity beauty can bloom.

But when Yunxian is sent into an arranged marriage, her mother-in-law forbids her from seeing Meiling and from helping the women and girls in the household. Yunxian is to act like a proper wife—embroider bound-foot slippers, recite poetry, give birth to sons, and stay forever within the walls of the family compound, the Garden of Fragrant Delights.

How might a woman like Yunxian break free of these traditions and lead a life of such importance that many of her remedies are still used five centuries later? How might the power of friendship support or complicate these efforts? A captivating story of women helping each other, Lady Tan’s Circle of Women is a triumphant reimagining of the life of one person who was remarkable in the Ming dynasty and would be considered remarkable today.

Purchase Link:

Amazon

My Review:

First of all, this is a great book to read in the new year. This is my first book of the year. 

I love reading stories of women in ancient times. Nowadays, women get a lot of support from family and friends and we have a lot of opportunities to educate ourselves and do whatever we like. But, situations were not like that in ancient times. It is interesting to read about women of those times and how they achieved greater things with many restrictions from society and family.

The story is about Lady Tan's life from childhood, covering her family, education, marriage life, struggles, etc. This story represents a woman's life in the 15th century in China.

I would rate it 5/5 for many reasons. This story not only represents the everyday struggles of women in those times but also touches upon the solutions they chose and how they overcame the problems with their strength. 

There are a few scenes that touched my heart like:

• When Yunxian mixes her blood in the concoction to heal her friend. 
• Her love for her friend.
• The foot binding process and how hard it is for women.
• How the wives chose to live with their husband's concubines and made peace with themselves.
• How well Grandmother Ru trains Yunxian not only with practical medical skills but with important life skills

As the name suggests, this story is about women lifting each other, supporting each other, and growing together. This message is clear and is very relevant even to the modern woman. 

I would recommend this book to all readers who love women's Fiction and Historical fiction.

My Rating: 5/5

About the Author:

Ms. See was born in Paris but grew up in Los Angeles. She lived with her mother but spent a lot of time with her father’s family in Chinatown. 

Her first book, On Gold Mountain: The One Hundred Year Odyssey of My Chinese-American Family (1995), was a national bestseller and a New York Times Notable Book. 

The book traces the journey of Lisa’s great-grandfather, Fong See, who overcame obstacles at every step to become the 100-year-old godfather of Los Angeles’s Chinatown and the patriarch of a sprawling family.

Until next time,

The House of Eve by Sadeqa Johnson - [Book review]

 Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

Book Details:

Title: The House of Eve

Author: Sadeqa Johnson

Genre: Historical Fiction, Women Fiction

Publisher: Simon & Schuster

Print Length: 384 pages

Source: A copy from local library

Blurb:

From the award-winning author of Yellow Wife, a daring and redemptive novel set in 1950s Philadelphia and Washington, DC, that explores what it means to be a woman and a mother, and how much one is willing to sacrifice to achieve her greatest goal.

1950s Philadelphia: fifteen-year-old Ruby Pearsall is on track to becoming the first in her family to attend college, in spite of having a mother more interested in keeping a man than raising a daughter. But a taboo love affair threatens to pull her back down into the poverty and desperation that has been passed on to her like a birthright.

Eleanor Quarles arrives in Washington, DC, with ambition and secrets. When she meets the handsome William Pride at Howard University, they fall madly in love. But William hails from one of DC’s elite wealthy Black families, and his par­ents don’t let just anyone into their fold. Eleanor hopes that a baby will make her finally feel at home in William’s family and grant her the life she’s been searching for. But having a baby—and fitting in—is easier said than done.

With their stories colliding in the most unexpected of ways, Ruby and Eleanor will both make decisions that shape the trajectory of their lives.

Purchase Link:

Amazon

My Review:

The story is about 2 negro women Eleanor and Ruby who are smart, ambitious and want to get educated and settle well in life. The lives of women were not easy those days with no support or guidance from anyone in the family or friends. Both get pregnant before marriage and their lives change forever due to this.

This story is heart wrenching to me. Especially the episodes about the Christian home for unwed pregnant girls. It is depressing to read about how they are shamed in the name of God and how they are treated cruelly.

The narrative is engaging. The story is well researched and characters are portrayed in realistic way. Would love to read more from the same author. The ending is satisfying. The characters of Eleanor , Ruby, Aunt Marie, Rose, William and Shimmy are impressive.

My Rating: 5/5

Until next time,

The Legendary Mo Seto by A Y Chan - [Book Review]

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

Book Details:

Title: The Legendary Mo Seto

Author: A Y Chan

Genre: Children's book, Middle grade fiction

Publisher: Aladdin

Print Length: 320 pages

Source: A free review copy from the author

Blurb:

A fast-paced, high-kicking debut that’s Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon meets Stand Up, Yumi Chung as a young taekwondo artist uses an ancient book to help save her dreams—and her father.

Twelve-year-old Modesty “Mo” Seto dreams of being a taekwondo champion. Even though her mom disapproves, Mo can always count on her dad, who is her number one fan and biggest supporter. Lately, Mo has been on a losing streak, and it doesn’t help that she keeps losing to her archnemesis, Dax, who’s much bigger than her. If only she were faster, stronger, not so petite. Mo can’t even lean on her dad like usual with how distracted he’s been lately.

When Mo learns about the chance to audition to star alongside her idol and legendary martial artist and movie star Cody Kwok, she knows this her chance to prove to her dad, to the world, and to herself that she can compete with anyone, no matter her size. Unfortunately, Dax is auditioning, too. As Mo and her nemesis progress to callbacks, someone attempts to sabotage the movie set and Mo’s dad disappears—and both events seem linked to a mysterious book, the Book of Joy.

The book contains information on Xiaoxi Fu, a secret dance-like martial art developed by Mo’s ancestral grandmother. Armed with these secret moves and an unexpected ally, Mo embarks on a high-octane adventure to rescue her father, save the movie, and discover an unexpected joy in being small.

Purchase Link:

Amazon

My Review:

This is the story of a 12 year old girl Mo Seto/ Modesty, an ambitious person training to be a Taekwondo Champion. She loses against Dax in the championship and is disappointed when her father also disappears from her life temporarily. 

She finds one book about an ancient martial art at home and gets intrigued about the link between the martial art and her grandfather. With help from her friend Nacho, she tries to translate and understand the technique shown in the book.

She gets an opportunity to audition for a movie by her favorite actor Cody Kwok. Since her dad is not there to guide her and her mom is not interested in martial arts, she gets into audition by lying about her height.

Is Cody Kwok really a hero in real life? Can she realize her dream of working with her favorite actor? Where is her dad and what's the connection to the book and his disappearance? The remaining story answers all these questions.

What I loved?

The plot, characterization, narrative and twists are all very well done. The last half of the book seems like a good thriller. 

Characters are genuine, honest and relatable. I love Modesty - her attitude of taking risks, and her determination to achieve something. Nacho is a lovely friend that anyone would be fortunate to have. Dax, Jun and Cody are all relatable to the persons we see in our daily lives. 

I love the message from the story. A good and inspiring read for middle graders.

My Rating: 5/5

PS: I received a review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Until next time,