The story picks up at some points but some others are really slow. Some parts of the book feel very preachy and intent on stablishing just one narratiThe story picks up at some points but some others are really slow. Some parts of the book feel very preachy and intent on stablishing just one narrative which is not bad when the author knows to be subtle and creates a good plot but here the narrative seems to take over the plot at moments and we don't know whether we are reading a book or reading a manifesto. There is enough in the book that you don't feel overwhelmed by it but it does take away from the plot....more
Daniel Aleman's debut novel, "Indivisible," is a touching and timely story that explores themes of family, identity, and the immigrant Rating: 4 stars
Daniel Aleman's debut novel, "Indivisible," is a touching and timely story that explores themes of family, identity, and the immigrant experience. The story follows Mateo Garcia, a young boy whose life is turned upside down when his father is detained by ICE. As Mateo navigates the challenges of growing up without his father, he also grapples with questions of belonging and what it means to be American.
Aleman's writing is heartfelt and authentic, capturing the emotional turmoil of his characters with sensitivity and depth. The relationships in the novel are beautifully portrayed, particularly the bond between Mateo and his father, which serves as the emotional core of the story. The characters are well-developed and relatable, each struggling with their own demons and insecurities.
One of the strengths of "Indivisible" is its portrayal of the immigrant experience. Aleman sheds light on the complexities of immigration and the impact it has on families, highlighting the resilience and strength of those who are affected. The novel also touches on important themes of identity and self-acceptance, as Mateo grapples with his own sense of belonging in a country that often sees him as an outsider.
Overall, "Indivisible" is a powerful and poignant novel that resonates with authenticity and heart. Aleman's storytelling is compelling, drawing readers into Mateo's world and inviting them to empathize with his struggles. This is a book that will stay with you long after you've turned the final page, a testament to the enduring power of family and the human spirit....more
Rose Szabo's "What Big Teeth" is a dark and atmospheric novel that puts a unique twist on the werewolf mythos. The story follows EleanoRating: 3 stars
Rose Szabo's "What Big Teeth" is a dark and atmospheric novel that puts a unique twist on the werewolf mythos. The story follows Eleanor, a young girl who returns to her family home after being expelled from boarding school, only to find herself caught up in the mysterious and sinister world of her relatives.
One of the strengths of the novel is its rich and evocative atmosphere. Szabo does a fantastic job of creating a sense of foreboding and unease, drawing the reader into Eleanor's world and keeping them on edge throughout the story. The setting, a crumbling mansion shrouded in secrets, adds to the eerie atmosphere and sets the stage for a compelling mystery.
The characters in "What Big Teeth" are complex and well-developed, each with their own motivations and secrets. Eleanor is a compelling protagonist, struggling to find her place in a family that seems determined to keep her at arm's length. The dynamics between the family members are fraught with tension, adding depth to the story and keeping the reader guessing about their true intentions.
However, the novel does have its flaws. The pacing is slow at times, with long stretches where not much seems to happen. Additionally, the story can be confusing, with several plot threads that are introduced but never fully explored. Some readers may also find the ending to be unsatisfying, as it leaves many questions unanswered.
Overall, "What Big Teeth" is a dark and atmospheric novel that will appeal to fans of gothic fiction and reimagined fairy tales. While it has its flaws, it is an intriguing and immersive read that will keep you turning pages until the very end....more
2.5 stars for this book David Levithan's "Ryan and Avery" presents an intriguing premise but falls short in execution. The story follows the lives of R2.5 stars for this book David Levithan's "Ryan and Avery" presents an intriguing premise but falls short in execution. The story follows the lives of Ryan and Avery, two individuals from different worlds whose paths cross unexpectedly. While the concept is promising, the narrative lacks depth, and the characters feel underdeveloped. The relationship between Ryan and Avery feels forced at times, and their interactions often lack authenticity. Additionally, the pacing of the story is uneven, with some parts dragging on while others feel rushed. Overall, "Ryan and Avery" is a mediocre read that fails to leave a lasting impression....more
Interesting take on the genre but might not as enjoyable to most people that are not familiar with the original Shakespeare works from which these chaInteresting take on the genre but might not as enjoyable to most people that are not familiar with the original Shakespeare works from which these characters are originally from. This will definitely be a great read for a literature class but an ok reading for the average reader. Kudos for the innovation tough....more
This was an ok book, not a lot of historical accuracy but it can be enjoyed by most readers. The ending did definitely felt rushed and the villain wasThis was an ok book, not a lot of historical accuracy but it can be enjoyed by most readers. The ending did definitely felt rushed and the villain was a non entity....more
"Zara Hossain is Here" by Sabina Khan is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that delves deep into the complexities of immigrant life in the United"Zara Hossain is Here" by Sabina Khan is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that delves deep into the complexities of immigrant life in the United States. The book offers a nuanced portrayal of the struggles faced by first-generation immigrant families, highlighting the challenges of balancing cultural identity with the desire for freedom and acceptance.
One of the strengths of the book is its realistic portrayal of the immigrant experience, without romanticizing or demonizing either the native or adopted country. Through the eyes of the protagonist, Zara, we see the internal conflict of someone who is proud of her heritage but also recognizes the opportunities and freedoms available in the United States.
The book also explores the nuances of human behavior, particularly in the interactions between characters. While some aspects of the characters' motivations are left vague, this serves to add depth to the narrative, inviting readers to ponder the complexities of human nature.
In conclusion, "Zara Hossain is Here" is a beautifully written and compelling novel that sheds light on the immigrant experience in a way that is both enlightening and inspiring. I highly recommend this book to readers of all backgrounds who are interested in exploring themes of identity, freedom, and acceptance....more
I did not like this book at all, I could not relate to the main character, I could not relate to the "plight" that the main character was going througI did not like this book at all, I could not relate to the main character, I could not relate to the "plight" that the main character was going through. To be honest I'm not sure what gender the character was even after reading the whole thing, even though I think that the vagueness was on purpose. That being said the ending was very strange and against everything that the main character seemed to profess in the first 100 pages. I do not like reading books in verse (I'm reading this for a committee). Sometimes we have to realize that even if a book is about a worthy cause does not mean that the book will be good. We have to judge books on their merits not on who happens to write it....more
This was also a book written in verse, I was able to better relate to the characters on this book although I have no idea why I had to read about the This was also a book written in verse, I was able to better relate to the characters on this book although I have no idea why I had to read about the point of view of a dog but it was not the worst thing. That being said the book did not seem to go anywhere anytime soon and it did not care about it. the bare bones story was good but it did not seem to amount to anything given the ending. Might be used in a book display for Hispanic month or something like that but beyond that I do not see the point of reading this book to gain an understanding in the Cuban immigrant experience when there are books that better deal with these issues. 2.5 Stars...more
This went went everywhere, I did not like the main character at first but she grew on me, I think this book was able to navigate the thin line betweenThis went went everywhere, I did not like the main character at first but she grew on me, I think this book was able to navigate the thin line between racial issues portrayed in this book. I think the minor characters needed more development and the book should have explored the relationship between the main character and her father more. ...more
This book needs to be read in very mutinously if you want to really understand what is going on. This is a very graphic book in regards to what happenThis book needs to be read in very mutinously if you want to really understand what is going on. This is a very graphic book in regards to what happens to the people in the book and in regards to the description of such things, but the ending was way too rushed and everything that the book was striving towards the ends was over in just a couple of pages, I was confused as to what I was reading while I was reading and I was left confused as to what I had read once I was done with it. This is neither a good horror book nor a thriller, what this is is an attempt to write a book in regards to a concept and then taking it from there. 2.5 Stars....more
This book was a rollercoaster, there were aspects that were all over the place and the speed of the plot was slow at some points and too fast at otherThis book was a rollercoaster, there were aspects that were all over the place and the speed of the plot was slow at some points and too fast at other. The plot twist at the end redeemed this book for me from a vanilla horror story to a book worth reading a couple more times, maybe. There are a lot of social issues attached to the narrative of the book but for the most part they are not overexposed. While this book is not going to win the Pulitzer , there are aspects to this book that deserved to be explored in a deeper way. The ending feels a little meaningless when we don't figure out what is going to happen to everyone and whether the situation is going to be fixed or not, there are so many aspects left unexplored that I think I would like to see a sequel of this book...more
"Spin" by Rebecca Caprara is a delightful and inspiring retelling of the Arachne myth from Ancient Greece. As a fan of Greek mythology, particularly t"Spin" by Rebecca Caprara is a delightful and inspiring retelling of the Arachne myth from Ancient Greece. As a fan of Greek mythology, particularly the Arachne origin story, my bias may shine through in this review, but the novel genuinely captivated me.
The plot is skillfully crafted, making it easy to follow while still maintaining a sense of anticipation. Caprara weaves a backstory for Arachne that feels both believable and emotionally resonant. The depth added to the side characters makes the narrative all the more engaging, and I found myself growing fond of them.
Arachne's challenge to the gods and her subsequent triumph, only to be subjected to their whims, speaks to a deeper truth about human nature. Caprara adeptly explores the complexities of power, creativity, and the consequences of defying authority. The narrative doesn't shy away from the darker aspects of Greek mythology, adding layers of meaning for readers familiar with the original story.
One of the highlights for me was the twist at the ending. Caprara managed to bring a fresh perspective without deviating significantly from the original myth. This balance between homage and innovation is commendable and adds an extra layer of satisfaction for readers who appreciate Greek mythology.
In conclusion, "Spin" is a must-read for anyone who loves Greek mythology. Caprara's retelling of the Arachne myth is both faithful to the source material and creatively nuanced, offering a fresh and insightful perspective. The book explores universal themes and truths embedded in ancient tales, making it a captivating read for mythology enthusiasts and general readers alike....more
This was such a fresh breath of air to read. The book was cute, the graphics were vivid and the characters were realistic and likable, the plot was reThis was such a fresh breath of air to read. The book was cute, the graphics were vivid and the characters were realistic and likable, the plot was relatable. The author and the graphic artist really worked well together in this book to create a great graphic novel that has substance, likeable characters and a well defined plot. Would recommend this graphic novel to any Young Adult....more
"The Silence that Binds Us" by Joanna Ho is a powerful and poignant exploration of grief, loss, and the enduring impact of family tragedy. Ho deftly n"The Silence that Binds Us" by Joanna Ho is a powerful and poignant exploration of grief, loss, and the enduring impact of family tragedy. Ho deftly navigates heavy topics such as suicide and the aftermath of losing a loved one, providing readers with an emotionally resonant narrative.
The main plot of the book delves into important issues that deserve greater attention, including racism, anti-Asian sentiments, and the power of activism. Through the lens of the protagonist's journey, Ho sheds light on the complexities of identity, belonging, and the fight for justice in a society plagued by prejudice and discrimination.
What sets this book apart is its ability to tackle difficult subjects with sensitivity and nuance, fostering empathy and understanding among readers. Ho's writing is both compelling and thought-provoking, drawing readers into the lives of her characters and inviting them to confront uncomfortable truths about the world we live in.
In conclusion, "The Silence that Binds Us" is a must-read for anyone seeking a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of grief, identity, and social justice. Ho's masterful storytelling and compelling narrative make this book an unforgettable read that will leave a lasting impact on readers long after they turn the final page....more
"Medusa" by Jessie Burton, with illustrations by Lomenech Gill, offers a visually stunning take on a classic myth but falls short in its attempt to in"Medusa" by Jessie Burton, with illustrations by Lomenech Gill, offers a visually stunning take on a classic myth but falls short in its attempt to infuse a new perspective into an already well-established tale.
The illustrations are undoubtedly the standout feature of the book. Gill's artwork is captivating and adds a layer of richness to the narrative. The visual representation of the characters and settings is exquisite, creating a visually immersive experience for the reader.
However, the plot suffers from the imposition of the author's own point of view into the familiar narrative of Medusa. While the concept of offering an alternate reality for this mythical character is intriguing, it often feels forced and detracts from the timeless quality of the original story.
For readers unfamiliar with the classic Medusa tale, Burton's narrative might present a credible alternate reality that is enjoyable in its own right. The book introduces the character in a fresh light, providing a unique perspective that can be appreciated by those who approach it with no preconceived notions.
In conclusion, "Medusa" is a book that shines in its artistic presentation but falters in its narrative execution. The clash between the author's perspective and the well-established myth creates a discord that may leave readers with a sense of dissatisfaction. If you are willing to set aside expectations and enjoy the book for its illustrations and alternate take, it may prove enjoyable. However, for those deeply familiar with the original story, the deviations might result in a lukewarm reading experience....more
Adrienne Young's "The Unmaking of June Farrow" presents a brilliant concept, weaving a narrative that is both intriguing and ambitious. However, the eAdrienne Young's "The Unmaking of June Farrow" presents a brilliant concept, weaving a narrative that is both intriguing and ambitious. However, the execution, particularly in terms of narrative structure, leaves the reader in a state of perplexity.
The strength of the book lies in its unique concept, but the narrative's constant shifts between the future and the past can be disorienting. The use of flashbacks, while attempting to enrich the storyline, often contributes to confusion rather than clarity. This narrative complexity might demand more attention from the reader than one would expect from a typical "beach book."
The plot, although inherently good, becomes tangled in its own complexities. At times, the book feels like it aspired to be a more straightforward tale but got entangled in a web of intricate threads. The result is a narrative that demands a slower pace, more focus, and a careful unraveling of its layers.
As a reader, I was taken on a journey filled with unexpected twists and turns. However, the journey's destination left me both surprised and confused. The ending, while undoubtedly intriguing, might prove to be polarizing among readers, dividing opinions between those who appreciate the complexity and those who find it a bit too much to digest.
"The Unmaking of June Farrow" is a book that requires commitment from its readers. It's not the breezy beach read one might anticipate. Instead, it demands a level of engagement that may be challenging for those seeking a more straightforward narrative. Whether one loves the plot or finds it hard to endure will likely determine the overall reception of this novel.
In conclusion, Young's novel is a bold attempt at a complex narrative that, for some, may hit the mark while leaving others lost in its intricacies. Approach with an open mind, and you might find yourself enthralled by the ambitious storytelling....more
This book expands upon the world we got to know in "The Fourth Wing" with more characters, dragons and perils. That being said this book was very fun This book expands upon the world we got to know in "The Fourth Wing" with more characters, dragons and perils. That being said this book was very fun to read, there was action all the time and the plot was easy to follow. The book suffers of being too long and taking too many chapters to make its points across but if you are invested in this tale then you wont mind as much. Without spoiling anything for anyone I did not see that end coming, at least not in the way it was portrayed. From what I hear this will be a 5 book series so Im sure we will lose many more characters on the next couple of books and will get to know more about the society that rules the dragons. So what did you think of this book without spoiling anything?...more
"Fourth Wing" by Rebecca Yarros lives up to the hype and then some. This novel is a delightful surprise, offering an innovative plot with fast and smo"Fourth Wing" by Rebecca Yarros lives up to the hype and then some. This novel is a delightful surprise, offering an innovative plot with fast and smooth transitions that keep readers hooked from start to finish.
One of the standout features is the well-fleshed-out characters, both main and side. Yarros crafts characters with depth and authenticity, allowing readers to form genuine connections. The relatability of the characters enhances the overall reading experience, making their journeys all the more captivating.
While the narrative excels in many aspects, it doesn't escape the gravitational pull of a well-worn trope—girl not supposed to trust the bad guy, who, surprise surprise, is irresistibly attractive. The predictable trajectory of their relationship, marked by initial distrust, a forbidden attraction, and eventual love, feels like a familiar dance in the literary world.
Yet, even with this formulaic element, Yarros manages to infuse a freshness that keeps the story engaging. The chemistry between the characters, coupled with the author's skillful storytelling, breathes life into a narrative that could have easily felt trite in less capable hands.
The flaw, if it can be called that, doesn't overshadow the book's many strengths. "Fourth Wing" is a page-turner that deftly navigates the complexities of love, trust, and personal growth. The bad boy archetype, while familiar, becomes a canvas for Yarros to paint a story that resonates with readers on a visceral level.
In conclusion, "Fourth Wing" is a triumph. Rebecca Yarros delivers a story that not only lives up to the hype but exceeds expectations. The innovative plot, well-developed characters, and the author's ability to breathe life into a familiar trope make this a standout read. I, for one, cannot wait to dive into the sequel and explore more of Yarros's captivating literary world....more
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