tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81076525538453926502024-03-13T23:19:11.030-07:00The Ladybug Reads...... and reviews, and nit-picks, and critiques, and rips books apart (but not literally, of course).La Coccinellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03118313017081994087noreply@blogger.comBlogger2916125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8107652553845392650.post-89453142878001697092023-09-06T17:52:00.001-07:002023-09-06T17:52:23.935-07:00Review - Curse of the Dragon<blockquote>
<i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjglSLQn5Lfv9WwN_JiewJoXDpE07pABQa7F3LLFvRbzsJm-WocfDc7Ejc1w0XmFYLbMx_OIW-4qnTEPHC7YzPv9ZvVKNyaqpFWwqIHeESu5sqlexiFSa7uWAjMeD0abzEtf6Yctl5OcuqSsoIO6WRPLnjYc3ggT9I0-DXprOw3_H6VQ44RIUzDXu76QFY/s500/CurseOfTheDragon.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="333" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjglSLQn5Lfv9WwN_JiewJoXDpE07pABQa7F3LLFvRbzsJm-WocfDc7Ejc1w0XmFYLbMx_OIW-4qnTEPHC7YzPv9ZvVKNyaqpFWwqIHeESu5sqlexiFSa7uWAjMeD0abzEtf6Yctl5OcuqSsoIO6WRPLnjYc3ggT9I0-DXprOw3_H6VQ44RIUzDXu76QFY/s320/CurseOfTheDragon.jpg" width="213" /></a><b>Curse of the Dragon</b></i><br />
by Richard Fierce<br />
Date: 2023<br />
Publisher: Dragonfire Press<br />
Reading level: YA<br />
Book type: short story<br />
Pages: 15<br />
Format: e-book<br />
Source: BookFunnel<br />
<br />
One misstep can change a life. When Mina stumbles upon an abandoned dragon cave, she finds more than she bargained for. This is a prequel short story that leads into the series Marked by the Dragon. It doesn't have spoilers, but rather expands what the main series mentions.<br />
<br />
<i>(synopsis from <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/195485880-curse-of-the-dragon">Goodreads</a>)</i></blockquote><p>
</p><p><span class="Formatted">This short story is a unicorn indeed: a
self-published work that's technically competent. The author clearly has
a good command of grammar and punctuation (or he has an editor who
does). Unfortunately, the story itself is rather weak, marred by a few
continuity issues and a lot of... well, nothing happening.<br /><br />The
first half is literally a twelve-year-old girl wandering about, trying
to be helpful. The second half is where the action starts and ends, but
in a 15-page story, that doesn't leave a lot of room for plot
development. Basically, this is just a snippet of backstory that
explains how the main character in the Marked by the Dragon series got
her start.<br /><br />It's possible that the main books in the series are
stronger. But, given that so much time in an already short story is
spent on irrelevant wandering, I'm a bit wary. The first full book in
the series is free, though, so if you're really into dragons, you might
want to check it out. However, I'm not sure if this prequel short story
is really necessary.</span></p><div>
Plot: 2/5<br />
Characters: 2/5<br />
Pace: 2/5<br />
Writing & Editing: 4/5<br />
Originality: 3/5<br />
<br />
Enjoyment: 3/5 <br />
<br />
<b>Overall Rating:</b> 2.71 out of 5 ladybugs<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM2Wh2zzgchPwLSJbFu1YII0pi_ExXd5JI0Cf3zIhd8HP1EpMai8q3GlrOhyphenhyphenHRt8TSECF5gQvUIKfO34RQwSdUlAqNItTCw0SfvlU9jtT_JH6BVhyphenhyphenTjsL872vKXYAx-Ueo6zuLEzXP2WE/s1600/2andahalfbugs.png" /></div>La Coccinellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03118313017081994087noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8107652553845392650.post-63297645505982907782023-08-02T15:52:00.001-07:002023-08-02T15:52:40.220-07:00Review - A Spindle Splintered [AUDIO]<blockquote><i><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNjgIXbKd9d-2jmI-hzo8d5NJSGXhR0lZB6pBXvhATkEs8n8bDi_oMY3CPIJG7IJwbrUpMrp40ELMHDYglZPQpFlXRZbPeFR_pHQQf4xREO06bPrLkX7NkNtU9LE7f3GPbGSeAMAg6FQxjiRknveZ9Wd9AQ0yCgKyhnoYycVNrRyUJYF6gfvOFx0vboho/s500/ASpindleSplintered.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNjgIXbKd9d-2jmI-hzo8d5NJSGXhR0lZB6pBXvhATkEs8n8bDi_oMY3CPIJG7IJwbrUpMrp40ELMHDYglZPQpFlXRZbPeFR_pHQQf4xREO06bPrLkX7NkNtU9LE7f3GPbGSeAMAg6FQxjiRknveZ9Wd9AQ0yCgKyhnoYycVNrRyUJYF6gfvOFx0vboho/s320/ASpindleSplintered.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>A Spindle Splintered</b></i><br />
by Alix E. Harrow<br />
Date: 2021<br />
Publisher: Macmillan Audio<br />
Reading level: NA<br />
Book type: novella<br />
Length: 3 hours 20 minutes<br />
Format: audio book [unabridged]<br />
Source: library<br />
<br />
It's Zinnia Gray's twenty-first birthday, which is extra-special because it's the last birthday she'll ever have. When she was young, an industrial accident left Zinnia with a rare condition. Not much is known about her illness, just that no one has lived past twenty-one.
<br /><br />
Her best friend Charm is intent on making Zinnia's last birthday special with a full sleeping beauty experience, complete with a tower and a spinning wheel. But when Zinnia pricks her finger, something strange and unexpected happens, and she finds herself falling through worlds, with another sleeping beauty, just as desperate to escape her fate.<br />
<br />
<i>(synopsis from <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61220516-a-spindle-splintered">Goodreads</a>)</i></blockquote><p>How can you muck up a fairy-tale retelling this badly?
<br /><br />
If you enjoy in-your-face feminism, lots of Disney bashing (while also making lots of comparisons to the Disney version of <i>Sleeping Beauty</i>), too many pop-culture references, adults who act like teenagers, deus ex machina climaxes, and a vague plotline that makes little sense, you might enjoy <i>A Spindle Splintered</i>.
<br /><br />
If any or all of those things annoy you, <i>A Spindle Splintered</i> is probably not for you.
<br /><br />
The whole tone of the book turned me off. I felt like I was being preached at the whole time, like this was just a vehicle for the author's opinions on everything: politics, gender theory, feminism, media, the pharmaceutical industry, etc. And while I realize that fiction can be a reflection of such opinions, this was... not subtle. At all.
<br /><br />
I listened to this book, and I think that made things even worse. All the men, especially the older ones, sounded really weird. Pompous and wheezy. And I found the story hard to follow, which is not the best thing to have happen when you're listening because you can't just flip back and re-read the parts that you didn't quite grasp the first time.
<br /><br />
Overall, I'm wildly unimpressed.<br /></p><div>
<br />
Plot: 1/5<br />
Characters: 1/5<br />
Pace: 2/5<br />
Performance: 2/5<br />
Originality: 2/5<br />
Enjoyment: 0/5 <br />
<br />
Overall: 1.33 out of 5<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS4VLv9umGN0AQFO77xWOUaygkAkXFxuPDEah4VHimKIoJkdg6HVcVL_vVNbf79PThRlEO5S4UENlRfF5oWr7snaoSXHNJFetD00gm4GnGusjcwMhip5WH6ye0pTWRLpHk8qMDNWC_oqI/s1600/1andahalfbugs.png" /></div>La Coccinellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03118313017081994087noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8107652553845392650.post-47283545949259675892023-07-27T14:32:00.000-07:002023-07-27T14:32:41.755-07:00Review - The Seventh Raven [AUDIO]<blockquote><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0WO9G8OZAeo6Ott1AwxUl5mLk-4CJGZlIXPZdI4rZIstbBUNiWSqqpc21d8NikN2xLFnl97STOB8zVXB-GobCQm-YqAoCgX9If4VlMmDF8GgHFadZ8Pplz8FEqiwwc4aKZoceg_TU9eo1T8LMb6T8s4OcLyUKYCg6GzdxSigFcGNtSu48LEqoNxdpX3w/s500/TheSeventhRaven.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0WO9G8OZAeo6Ott1AwxUl5mLk-4CJGZlIXPZdI4rZIstbBUNiWSqqpc21d8NikN2xLFnl97STOB8zVXB-GobCQm-YqAoCgX9If4VlMmDF8GgHFadZ8Pplz8FEqiwwc4aKZoceg_TU9eo1T8LMb6T8s4OcLyUKYCg6GzdxSigFcGNtSu48LEqoNxdpX3w/s320/TheSeventhRaven.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><i><b>The Seventh Raven</b></i><br />
by David Elliott<br />
Date: 2021<br />
Publisher: HarperCollins and Blackstone Publishing<br />
Reading level: YA<br />
Book type: verse novel<br />
Length: 1 hour 47 minutes<br />
Format: audio book [unabridged]<br />
Source: library<br />
<br />
Best-selling author David Elliott examines the timeless themes of balance, transformation, and restoration in this evocative tale about a girl who will stop at nothing to reverse a curse that turned her seven brothers into ravens.
<br /><br />
And these are the sons<br />
Of good Jack and good Jane<br />
The eldest is Jack<br />
And the next one is Jack<br />
And the third one’s called Jack<br />
And the fourth’s known as Jack<br />
And the fifth says he’s Jack<br />
And they call the sixth Jack<br />
But the seventh’s not Jack<br />
The seventh is Robyn
<br /><br />
And this is his story
<br /><br />
When Robyn and his brothers are turned into ravens through the work of an unlucky curse, a sister is their only hope to become human again. Though she’s never met her brothers, April will stop at nothing to restore their humanity. But what about Robyn, who always felt a greater affinity to the air than to the earth-bound lives of his family?
<br /><br />
David Elliott’s latest novel in verse explores the unintended consequences of our actions, no matter our intentions, and is filled with powerful messages teased from a Grimms’ fairy tale.<br />
<br />
<i>(synopsis from <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/72851939-the-seventh-raven">Goodreads</a>)</i></blockquote><p>When you want a cool fairy tale retelling and you get a pile of pretentious poetry.</p><p>Yeah. It's like that.</p><p>I enjoy verse novels, but I did <i>not</i> click with this one. I think part of the problem is that I detested Robyn, the character with whom we're supposed to relate. See, Robyn <i>likes</i> being a raven... but he's such an unempathetic narcissist that, when the point of breaking the curse comes, he can only think of what <i>he</i> is going to lose, not what nine other people are about to get back, or the fact that his sister had to literally mutilate her body to break the curse. So he goes and sulks for the rest of his life and declares he's an angel (I kid you not; we're supposed to <i>like</i> this weirdo?).</p><p>There's a note at the end about how different forms of poetry were used for different characters. In another format, I might've found this interesting. But since I listened to the audiobook, I didn't get to see the words on the page, which made it more difficult to differentiate the types of poems. The effect one gets from listening to this book is one of unevenness and excessive repetition.</p><p>The misandrist messaging, the unlikable characters, and the repetition all combined to leave a rather sour taste in my mouth. I love verse novels. I love fairy tale retellings. I should have loved this book.</p><p>But I didn't.<br /></p><div>
<br />
Plot: 2/5<br />
Characters: 2/5<br />
Pace: 2/5<br />
Performance: 3/5<br />
Originality: 2/5<br />
Enjoyment: 1/5 <br />
<br />
Overall: 2 out of 5<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTeP7sxZIMgX-XyvOTq8eB9U4fiNUJl_4WE7oXPxuGIIQzrHIWucAWBfQ5r0_bHsyG_HgvW5tijwUeKfzFwYq5peARRCsWKRLw3osO2eRxjN7xlaiLK7rCOUa3KvGs9TEQn6ne7gJLWe0/s400/2bugs.png" /></div>La Coccinellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03118313017081994087noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8107652553845392650.post-66635896881504477382023-07-26T15:54:00.003-07:002023-07-26T15:54:35.288-07:00Review - I'm Glad My Mom Died [AUDIO]<blockquote><i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_n9HHK2wErqfZZuHu-OpD8Zcv3pv4dveaupkmLaBCMR5zC7tO6cBMxKOw5gCLKHVR4ayXX5HVhPLGOg9meoaRL46H_xGeXpwj0zK2giyxpG_MOMuSKp3FHWT5zPU9Ovm9I2d-lSD4qgV28HUQfaD0H4sF0yAxWz7rDTkLjSIc-BDdjBObvPFv7Tyb4Yc/s3000/ImGladMyMomDied.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_n9HHK2wErqfZZuHu-OpD8Zcv3pv4dveaupkmLaBCMR5zC7tO6cBMxKOw5gCLKHVR4ayXX5HVhPLGOg9meoaRL46H_xGeXpwj0zK2giyxpG_MOMuSKp3FHWT5zPU9Ovm9I2d-lSD4qgV28HUQfaD0H4sF0yAxWz7rDTkLjSIc-BDdjBObvPFv7Tyb4Yc/s320/ImGladMyMomDied.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><b>I'm Glad My Mom Died</b></i><br />
by Jennette McCurdy<br />
Date: 2022<br />
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Audio<br />
Reading level: A<br />
Book type: memoir<br />
Length: 6 hours 26 minutes<br />
Format: audio book [unabridged]<br />
Source: library<br />
<br />
<b>A heartbreaking and hilarious memoir by <i>iCarly</i> and <i>Sam & Cat</i> star Jennette McCurdy about her struggles as a former child actor—including eating disorders, addiction, and a complicated relationship with her overbearing mother—and how she retook control of her life.</b>
<br /><br />
Jennette McCurdy was six years old when she had her first acting audition. Her mother’s dream was for her only daughter to become a star, and Jennette would do anything to make her mother happy. So she went along with what Mom called “calorie restriction,” eating little and weighing herself five times a day. She endured extensive at-home makeovers while Mom chided, “Your eyelashes are invisible, okay? You think Dakota Fanning doesn’t tint hers?” She was even showered by Mom until age sixteen while sharing her diaries, email, and all her income.
<br /><br />
In <i>I’m Glad My Mom Died</i>, Jennette recounts all this in unflinching detail—just as she chronicles what happens when the dream finally comes true. Cast in a new Nickelodeon series called <i>iCarly</i>, she is thrust into fame. Though Mom is ecstatic, emailing fan club moderators and getting on a first-name basis with the paparazzi (“Hi Gale!”), Jennette is riddled with anxiety, shame, and self-loathing, which manifest into eating disorders, addiction, and a series of unhealthy relationships. These issues only get worse when, soon after taking the lead in the <i>iCarly</i> spinoff <i>Sam & Cat</i> alongside Ariana Grande, her mother dies of cancer. Finally, after discovering therapy and quitting acting, Jennette embarks on recovery and decides for the first time in her life what she really wants.
<br /><br />
Told with refreshing candor and dark humor, <i>I’m Glad My Mom Died</i> is an inspiring story of resilience, independence, and the joy of shampooing your own hair.<br />
<br />
<i>(synopsis from <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60406379-i-m-glad-my-mom-died">Goodreads</a>)</i></blockquote><p><span class="Formatted">I heard a lot about this book last year. With a title like that, how could a reader not be intrigued?<br /><br />This
is a rather harrowing memoir of Hollywood, abuse, illness, family
dysfunction, and, yes, love. The provocative title seems to have turned a
lot of people off. After listening to this audiobook, though, I can
understand why it was chosen. Emotions are complicated. Families are
complicated. When there is such emotional chaos in a family, it's
understandable that there might be a certain amount of relief when the
source of much of that chaos is removed from the picture.<br /><br />Jennette's
mom put her through a lot. The woman was not well, physically or
mentally. She was a hoarder. She had extremely narcissistic behaviours.
She lived vicariously through her daughter, seeming to see Jennette as
little more than an extension of herself. The harrowing depictions of
abuse (that Jennette didn't even realize was abuse until years later)
are hard to listen to. Coming out with the raw details must have been
incredibly difficult, and I applaud Jennette for being courageous enough
to do so.<br /><br />This is an important book, especially for people who
may have similar relationships with family members. Ignoring the abuse
doesn't help. Keeping secrets doesn't help. All those things serve to do
is push the problem further into the future... where it will have to be
dealt with at some point, especially if you want to have any semblance
of a healthy, normal life.<br /><br />I just want to add that I'm not the
biggest fan of audiobooks in general. But, in this case, I would
recommend listening to this book rather than reading it. Jennette does a
great job with the narration. Her dry humour comes through when it's
appropriate, and yet there are other times when you can hear the genuine
heartbreak in her voice. This is her story, after all... and it's
wonderful to get to hear her tell it to us.<br /><br />Overall, this is a
really strong memoir. I've never seen <i>iCarly</i>, and I didn't even know who
Jennette was before this book came on the scene. But I found this to be
a fascinating memoir, and I would definitely recommend it to others.</span></p><p><span class="Formatted"> </span><br />Premise: 4/5<br />Meter: n/a<br />
Writing: 4/5<br />
Performance: 4/5<br />
Enjoyment: 4/5 <br />
<br />
Overall: 4 out of 5<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhusTJEUsAop2A2GyoONjl2K-tPZnoNyYGTPjKPs6XFVfzn3O8-31-x0iFl4EY3rIg3u7KwtjRkV136WUjlFBU6rl2IRrzcIlyCIj3Cy88xt9-RH5AH1YCtVJee-Pl6EfgZWx984FrUO5I/s400/4bugs.png" /></p>La Coccinellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03118313017081994087noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8107652553845392650.post-79293122843273373552023-07-17T15:23:00.001-07:002023-07-17T15:25:12.796-07:00Review - Wings in the Wild [AUDIO]<blockquote><i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiytgm3P_kN2huOUjbNBnNIduNWoMROpsDHptaHtC4cvWaXbLQWn-qMN58QUC6RtU8vrbE50vuYq41_3ESeLydk4VNyOONvrdJMJZMWnsq61xL7OB3WODCXdSUGPe5wMiMB0dt9NDEigzvcpJQVT-9wm_QwDHAvLz-n9FE4elsC4atwsm428MvbhiM1YzA/s3000/WingsInTheWild.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiytgm3P_kN2huOUjbNBnNIduNWoMROpsDHptaHtC4cvWaXbLQWn-qMN58QUC6RtU8vrbE50vuYq41_3ESeLydk4VNyOONvrdJMJZMWnsq61xL7OB3WODCXdSUGPe5wMiMB0dt9NDEigzvcpJQVT-9wm_QwDHAvLz-n9FE4elsC4atwsm428MvbhiM1YzA/s320/WingsInTheWild.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><b>Wings in the Wild</b></i><br />
by Margarita Engle<br />
Date: 2023<br />
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Audio<br />
Reading level: YA<br />
Book type: verse novel<br />
Length: 1 hour 46 minutes<br />
Format: audio book [unabridged]<br />
Source: library<br />
<br />
<b>This gorgeously romantic contemporary novel-in-verse from award-winning author Margarita Engle tells the “inspiring and hopeful” (<i>Kirkus Reviews</i>, starred review) love story of two teens fighting for climate action and human rights.</b>
<br /><br />
Winged beings are meant to be free. And so are artists, but the Cuban government has criminalized any art that doesn’t meet their approval. Soleida and her parents protest this injustice with their secret sculpture garden of chained birds. Then a hurricane exposes the illegal art, and her parents are arrested.
<br /><br />
Soleida escapes to Central America alone, joining the thousands of Cuban refugees stranded in Costa Rica while seeking asylum elsewhere. There she meets Dariel, a Cuban American boy whose enigmatic music enchants birds and animals—and Soleida.
<br /><br />
Together they work to protect the environment and bring attention to the imprisoned artists in Cuba. Soon they discover that love isn’t about falling—it’s about soaring together to new heights. But wings can be fragile, and Soleida and Dariel come from different worlds. They are fighting for a better future—and the chance to be together.<br />
<br />
<i>(synopsis from <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/62240374-wings-in-the-wild">Goodreads</a>)</i></blockquote><p>
I didn't expect to dislike this one as much as I did. I've read a couple of Margarita Engle's other verse novels, both historical fiction set in Cuba, and really enjoyed them. I was curious to see what a verse novel was like in audiobook format. I can't say that I was impressed. Then again, I don't think I would've liked this book anyway, even if I'd read a copy.</p><p>Aside from being very hard to follow (which may simply be one of the limitations of the audio format here), the characters are flat, the story fizzles, and the whole thing gets very, <i>very</i> preachy. Dariel's anger over climate change is to the point of being off-putting, and a few times the narrative devolves into statistics and scolding. I almost wondered if this thing had been ghostwritten by Greta Thunberg.</p><p>Yes, deforestation is a problem. Yes, artists being persecuted in Cuba is awful. Yes, being a refugee must suck. Those are the things I really wanted to read about. Instead, we got a weak story with contrived relationship complications, a confusing timeline, anti-adult sentiment, and a little too much preaching about how the world is toast if we don't meet yet another arbitrary target for carbon-emission reductions (which will probably be pushed ahead another few years when we reach 2040 and we're not all dead).</p><p>If I read any other books by this author in the future, I'll be sticking to her historical fiction... and staying away from the audiobooks.<br /></p><div>
<br />
Plot: 2/5<br />
Characters: 2/5<br />
Pace: 2/5<br />
Performance: 3/5<br />
Originality: 3/5<br />
Enjoyment: 1/5 <br />
<br />
Overall: 2.17 out of 5<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTeP7sxZIMgX-XyvOTq8eB9U4fiNUJl_4WE7oXPxuGIIQzrHIWucAWBfQ5r0_bHsyG_HgvW5tijwUeKfzFwYq5peARRCsWKRLw3osO2eRxjN7xlaiLK7rCOUa3KvGs9TEQn6ne7gJLWe0/s400/2bugs.png" /></div>La Coccinellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03118313017081994087noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8107652553845392650.post-67813698673346772672023-07-16T12:11:00.003-07:002023-07-16T15:28:42.425-07:00Review - Not If I Save You First [AUDIO]<blockquote><i><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCv-m8nOo-ACAjsjVTgTYGDiDV-OixrYQ6gXckTe73D130FdOqJIQXf8MuRqRLxCKcVwo8FchmCo7xRtssNyMFC1_GXfP5XXXbf45XP0WML-k4dLzj_AyjnBBtzucPECpuPwdRJqVLBxIUYlBn_qavJfyFSWI9U2RIWNNZQSZGm6EnbduRaCW30oDq7Yc/s896/NotIfISaveYouFirst.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCv-m8nOo-ACAjsjVTgTYGDiDV-OixrYQ6gXckTe73D130FdOqJIQXf8MuRqRLxCKcVwo8FchmCo7xRtssNyMFC1_GXfP5XXXbf45XP0WML-k4dLzj_AyjnBBtzucPECpuPwdRJqVLBxIUYlBn_qavJfyFSWI9U2RIWNNZQSZGm6EnbduRaCW30oDq7Yc/s320/NotIfISaveYouFirst.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Not If I Save You First</b></i><br />
by Ally Carter<br />
Date: 2018<br />
Publisher: Scholastic<br />
Reading level: YA<br />
Book type: prose novel<br />
Length: 6 hours 55 minutes<br />
Format: audio book [unabridged]<br />
Source: library<br />
<br />
Bestselling author Ally Carter returns with an exciting stand-alone novel, about a girl stranded in the middle of the Alaskan wilderness with the boy who wronged her . . . as an assassin moves in.
<br /><br />
Maddie and Logan were torn apart by a kidnapping attempt when they were young. They were only kids -- Logan's dad was POTUS and Maddie's father was the Secret Service agent meant to guard him. The kidnappers were stopped -- but Maddie was whisked off to Alaska with her father, for safety. Maddie and Logan had been inseparable . . . but then she never heard from him again.
<br /><br />
Now it's a few years later. Maddie's a teenager, used to living a solitary life with her father. It's quiet -- until Logan is sent to join them. After all this time without word, Maddie has nothing to say to him -- until their outpost is attacked, and Logan is taken. They won't be out of the woods until they're . . . out of the woods, and Maddie's managed to thwart the foes and reconcile with Logan.<br />
<br />
<i>(synopsis from <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/41036919-not-if-i-save-you-first">Goodreads</a>)</i></blockquote><p>
I don't know why I do these things to myself...</p><p>It's been a while since I read a novel, but I didn't really feel like <i>reading</i> a novel, so I thought I'd find an audiobook instead. But... have you seen the length of some of those things? Fourteen hours just seems kind of intimidating. So when I found <i>Not If I Save You First</i>, which clocks in at just under seven hours, I thought I'd found a quick, fun read.</p><p>Hah.</p><p>I don't know if it was just the narrator or if I would've felt the same way if I'd been reading the print version, but I could not <i>stand</i> Maddie. It's like she was supposed to be a statement against the "not like other girls" trope, but it went so far that the girl was insufferable. When you've just been kidnapped by Russians in the Alaskan wilderness, the last thing you should be thinking about is your hair. And even if the whole carefree valley-girl thing that she lapsed into whenever things got serious was some sort of defence mechanism, it was <i>extremely</i> annoying. I was honestly rooting for her to get pushed off a cliff by the end of the book.</p><p>Aside from the far-fetched story, this book has some other problems. In Chapter 14, there's suddenly all this weird, sexist talk that seems to come out of nowhere. It makes the book seem like it was written in the past. And yet, the male MC almost comes across as emasculated thanks to the insistence on Maddie solving all their problems (with a metaphorical flip of the hair and a cheeky, "Whatever!"). This particular book also doesn't lend itself very well to the audiobook format. It was fine when there was just one Russian. He had an accent, so it was easy to tell when he was talking. But then there were suddenly two Russians, and I had to back up a few times to try to figure out who was saying what because there weren't always dialogue tags to indicate it.</p><p>One of the biggest annoyances, though, was the author's insistence on continually using the characters' names... even when they were alone in a scene or when Maddie and Logan were by themselves. "She" and "he" would've been more than sufficient and a lot less distracting.</p><p>That was part of the problem. This book just didn't hold my interest, and I got distracted a lot. I couldn't tell you some of the finer plot points because I kind of zoned out, and there was even a bit near the end where I forgot where Logan was. By that point, though, I had so little investment in the story that I didn't bother to go back and re-listen. I just wanted to be done.</p><br />Plot: 2/5<br />Characters: 1/5<br />
Pace: 2/5<br />
Performance: 2/5<br />
Originality: 2/5<br />
Enjoyment: 0/5 <br />
<br />
Overall: 1.5 out of 5<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS4VLv9umGN0AQFO77xWOUaygkAkXFxuPDEah4VHimKIoJkdg6HVcVL_vVNbf79PThRlEO5S4UENlRfF5oWr7snaoSXHNJFetD00gm4GnGusjcwMhip5WH6ye0pTWRLpHk8qMDNWC_oqI/s1600/1andahalfbugs.png" />La Coccinellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03118313017081994087noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8107652553845392650.post-8358711911165140942023-05-28T15:18:00.004-07:002023-05-28T15:18:57.827-07:00Review - Tie en-iras, tie el-iras!<blockquote>
<i><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnacTJEBlseTvxjTgzL9_x4ABuyNjf02YIC_UaDh3-vmJ3hPzIcS8ubUBkN4K-dPxdKcJifD05rswNHmtuBd2k4LlCP4ZFO3G8LGPqzOwqjoh1V7kmqkmx9QTIeqbXkaZ3ErV5f6YAx23JNSfoYgv08IeXx53zcrDjiQqW997rWOOI84d4cRdKx3cO/s500/TieEn-IrasTieEl-Iras.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnacTJEBlseTvxjTgzL9_x4ABuyNjf02YIC_UaDh3-vmJ3hPzIcS8ubUBkN4K-dPxdKcJifD05rswNHmtuBd2k4LlCP4ZFO3G8LGPqzOwqjoh1V7kmqkmx9QTIeqbXkaZ3ErV5f6YAx23JNSfoYgv08IeXx53zcrDjiQqW997rWOOI84d4cRdKx3cO/s320/TieEn-IrasTieEl-Iras.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Tie en-iras, tie el-iras!</b></i><br />
by Philipp Winterberg<br />
Date: 2013<br />
Publisher: Philipp Winterberg<br />
Reading level: C<br />
Book type: picture book<br />
Pages: 28<br />
Format: e-book<br />
Source: Amazon.ca<br />
<br />
When the neighbor complains, Ruby teases and the kindergarten teacher keeps nagging, Joseph couldn't care less. Luckily, you have two ears: one for in and one for out. There is only one person in the world that Joseph listens to ...
<br />
<br />
<i>(synopsis from <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25987749-in-here-out-there-tie-en-iras-tie-el-iras">Goodreads</a>)</i></blockquote><p>
I've been dabbling with learning Esperanto on Duolingo, and I thought it might be fun to try reading a book. I'm not ready for anything advanced, so I figured a picture book would be a good place to start. I'm obviously not even at picture-book level yet, because I would've been lost without the accompanying English!</p><p>As for the book itself... I don't get the story. I mean, I <i>get</i> it, but I don't understand why everyone is so horrible to this child. It's a good thing that Joseph turns into Noseph, allowing people's barbs and insults to go in one ear and out the other (which is what the title references). Holy moly! The people in this book are <i>mean</i>. A classmate tells him his drawing is silly (actually, in Esperanto, the word used is the one I was taught meant "ugly"; I guess it's still an insult). His teacher (I think) tells him his block tower is rubbish. His mother tells him he eats like a pig. A couple of brats on the playground tell him he can't do anything. Noseph just ignores all this horrific treatment... which I guess is fine, but none of these awful comments are really addressed. Is this what we're training kids to expect? Normalized cruelty and tearing-down of others?<br /></p><div>The illustrations are cute, but nothing really memorable.</div><div> </div><div>I think I'm more disturbed by the behaviour of the majority of the characters than anything else. I don't think I learned any Esperanto, though; I was far too distracted by the cruelty directed at Joseph/Noseph. If a good Esperanto picture book is what I'm after... I'll have to keep looking.<br /></div><div><br /></div><div>
Premise: 2/5<br />
Meter: n/a<br />
Writing: 3/5<br />
Illustrations: 3/5 <br />
Originality: 3/5<br />
<br />
Enjoyment: 1/5 <br />
<br />
Overall: 1.86 out of 5<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTeP7sxZIMgX-XyvOTq8eB9U4fiNUJl_4WE7oXPxuGIIQzrHIWucAWBfQ5r0_bHsyG_HgvW5tijwUeKfzFwYq5peARRCsWKRLw3osO2eRxjN7xlaiLK7rCOUa3KvGs9TEQn6ne7gJLWe0/s400/2bugs.png" /></div>La Coccinellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03118313017081994087noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8107652553845392650.post-10582985675798662102023-04-29T09:02:00.001-07:002023-04-29T09:02:38.862-07:00Review - Five Flying Penguins<blockquote>
<i><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC8N2tSAEE2yJ1bHQIItBsVj0yQTUiiv-d5T0lG9xA-_T3QRrM_RC24fMZDKRsSm9ZNR7b97D_3c6ZhvfNymNzhszWi6xVWT6SrNSmImn-nAvnL9Q8kD8XCL7Fzn2NYMNvV63PDGqn6YpWd9QHPQsUyBU-kndsIl0uV8aEuRnvbu-fwLiuOtvZmLfT/s400/FiveFlyingPenguins.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC8N2tSAEE2yJ1bHQIItBsVj0yQTUiiv-d5T0lG9xA-_T3QRrM_RC24fMZDKRsSm9ZNR7b97D_3c6ZhvfNymNzhszWi6xVWT6SrNSmImn-nAvnL9Q8kD8XCL7Fzn2NYMNvV63PDGqn6YpWd9QHPQsUyBU-kndsIl0uV8aEuRnvbu-fwLiuOtvZmLfT/s320/FiveFlyingPenguins.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Five Flying Penguins</b></i><br />
by Barbara Barbieri McGrath<br />
illustrated by Stephanie Fizer Coleman<br />
Date: 2018<br />
Publisher: Charlesbridge<br />
Reading level: C<br />
Book type: picture book<br />
Pages: 32<br />
Format: e-book<br />
Source: library<br />
<br />
Five little penguins are content in the cold--until they spot a menacing mammal!
<br /><br />
With a rhyming narrative that counts to five, adorable penguins are soaring--or flying--through the sea, trying to elude a lurking creature. But as young readers of this charming tale will discover, a friendly seal is only looking to play a game of tag.
<br />
<br />
<i>(synopsis from <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/37699895-five-flying-penguins">Goodreads</a>)</i></blockquote>
<br /><div>False advertising! None of these penguins fly. (And you know some astute kids are going to point this out. Just be forewarned.)</div><div><br /></div><div>This is a pleasant-to-look at picture book that incorporates rhyme, counting, cute pictures, excitement, and a twist at the end. While I didn't love the metre and rhythm here, it's not as bad as in some other books I've seen, and it's still readable. The illustrations are the real star, though, showing off a diverse group of colourful penguins as they scamper through a largely turquoise landscape (the choice to stay away from keeping every page white and snowy was a good one).</div><div><br /></div><div>Check this one out if you're looking for cute counting books with a little more of a story.</div><div><br /></div><div>
Premise: 4/5<br />
Meter: 3/5<br />
Writing: 4/5<br />
Illustrations: 4/5 <br />
Originality: 4/5<br />
<br />
Enjoyment: 4/5 <br />
<br />
Overall: 3.86 out of 5<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhusTJEUsAop2A2GyoONjl2K-tPZnoNyYGTPjKPs6XFVfzn3O8-31-x0iFl4EY3rIg3u7KwtjRkV136WUjlFBU6rl2IRrzcIlyCIj3Cy88xt9-RH5AH1YCtVJee-Pl6EfgZWx984FrUO5I/s400/4bugs.png" /></div>La Coccinellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03118313017081994087noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8107652553845392650.post-24710886576894425892023-03-27T18:03:00.001-07:002023-03-27T18:03:22.170-07:00Review - The Climb<blockquote>
<i><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2ijgS5WiqWvGZd3BuOt-QD3SlYTQqKYpOGIROSS4kYf4K1hQuPVJTgWF8ramh00XTPNC58gbeHIUri2R3qhbZhW9cNBMiKouZtXj7YBoS3sqzPtLWMdWwBboMvYYfIxtXspvDCqSpYmwUJcvlmRDjWIxAaOlUgswHAc6UqRJ6_vnNV-CHaKWmQbCY/s2560/TheClimb.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2ijgS5WiqWvGZd3BuOt-QD3SlYTQqKYpOGIROSS4kYf4K1hQuPVJTgWF8ramh00XTPNC58gbeHIUri2R3qhbZhW9cNBMiKouZtXj7YBoS3sqzPtLWMdWwBboMvYYfIxtXspvDCqSpYmwUJcvlmRDjWIxAaOlUgswHAc6UqRJ6_vnNV-CHaKWmQbCY/s320/TheClimb.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>The Climb</b></i><br />
by Amra Pajalic<br />
Date: 2022<br />
Publisher: Amra Pajalic<br />
Reading level: YA<br />
Book type: prose novella<br />
Pages: 86<br />
Format: e-book<br />
Source: newsletter<br />
<br />
"Noah and Zephyra have been best friends since they started high school. Zephyra thinks of Noah as a brother. Noah thinks Zephyra is the one.
<br /><br />
Zephyra’s only interest in romance is between the covers of her favourite romance novels. Noah believes now that they’re sixteen it’s just a matter of time until their friendship becomes a relationship.
<br /><br />
When they are completing a one week bike marathon their friendship hits some unexpected speed bumps. Will their friendship turn into something more or will they crash?
<br /><br />
The Climb, a young adult contemporary romance."<br />
<br />
<i>(synopsis from <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61838850-the-climb">Goodreads</a>)</i></blockquote><br />There's a reason self-published authors are
encouraged to hire editors. This book is a prime example of why. In the
beginning, it wasn't too terrible, so I thought I'd just keep reading;
the book is short, after all. But at around Chapter 5, things took a
turn for the worse, and reading this book became more of an exercise in
endurance than enjoyment. (I will admit that I did enjoy some of the
unintentionally funny typos and turns of phrase... but that's probably
the only enjoyment I got out of this.)<br /><br />The basic premise isn't
bad. Two friends, Zephyra and Noah, join a school-sponsored charity bike
ride. This forms the backdrop for the rest of the story, which is
basically all about the characters. Unfortunately, none of the
characters are likeable, or even realistic. We're stuck with
stereotypes, and strange adult characters who come across like they're
preteens.<br /><br />My biggest issue, though, is the relationship between
Zephyra and Noah. They're best friends. But Noah has a thing for
Zephyra. Like... a getting-a-boner-on-the-bus sort of thing. (This book
gets pretty graphic in spots, especially for a YA novella. It's
definitely not for the younger end of that age group!) The problem is...
he doesn't seem to have heard of a little thing called consent.
Throughout the book, he repeatedly kisses or tries to kiss Zephyra, then
gets angry when she tells him (also repeatedly) that she's not
interested. Eventually, she comes around because of jealousy, and Noah
gets the girl. I <i>hate</i> this. Make a nuisance of yourself until you get what you want? Great lesson.<br /><br />I
wouldn't recommend this to anyone. Even if the relationship aspects had
been dealt with better, the editing was non-existent. Seriously. The
book shifts from third person to first person... twice. Save your time
and skip this one.</p><div>
<br />
Premise: 1/5<br />
Plot: 2/5<br />
Characters: 0/5<br />
Pace: 2/5<br />
Writing: 1/5<br />
Editing: 0/5 <br />
Originality: 2/5<br />
Enjoyment: 0/5<br />
<br />
<b>Overall Rating:</b> 1 out of 5 ladybugs<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjijgFGLLvG9kt-2fjm6ri1Dr-Nymrgj-7fsRYKo74bPX2Xo-fxCoN1Y2HWRW4Gc_96TfVMHffwVWQ9a4bLOsR_wmuEfnpa_YqefvFiK4DJB8JOwbSFtxaQjWld9uJi6P2_GV33bLWMYk0/s400/1bug.png" /></div>La Coccinellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03118313017081994087noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8107652553845392650.post-29998706162096035632023-02-05T11:58:00.000-08:002023-02-05T11:58:13.087-08:00Review - The Smart Cookie<blockquote>
<i><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBNAFvtah1vlq9H-1Tlx6hDi2dR9ENKW7L-AviwvXtOw4VFNo0-RB0H_LrnVfDf3VUGKx5sEDoGeLUNq09PATpmnFU45UAld2ErVi5erpqQsGBUNZMgmNpNsZ3bwwprKcSKRcqMYIRGu2N9pdxVcAZTAEtlNZ4ThvUrChe7xrcSeBECqQkmSx7wMnB/s400/TheSmartCookie.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBNAFvtah1vlq9H-1Tlx6hDi2dR9ENKW7L-AviwvXtOw4VFNo0-RB0H_LrnVfDf3VUGKx5sEDoGeLUNq09PATpmnFU45UAld2ErVi5erpqQsGBUNZMgmNpNsZ3bwwprKcSKRcqMYIRGu2N9pdxVcAZTAEtlNZ4ThvUrChe7xrcSeBECqQkmSx7wMnB/s320/TheSmartCookie.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>The Smart Cookie</b></i> (The Food Group #5)<br />
by Jory John<br />
illustrated by Pete Oswald<br />
Date: 2021<br />
Publisher: HarperCollins<br />
Reading level: C<br />
Book type: picture book<br />
Pages: 40<br />
Format: e-book<br />
Source: library<br />
<br />
Be a smart cookie—and don’t miss the fifth picture book in the #1 <i>New York Times</i> bestselling Food Group series from creators Jory John and Pete Oswald!
<br /><br />
This cookie has never felt like a smart cookie no matter how hard she tries, especially in comparison to all the clever cupcakes and brilliant rolls in the bakery. Will a dash of creativity and a sprinkle of confidence be enough to help her learn that perfect scores and having all the answers aren’t the only ingredients for intelligence?
<br /><br />
Jory John and Pete Oswald serve up another heaping plate of laughs and lessons with this empowering, witty, and charming addition to their #1 <i>New York Times</i> bestselling series!
<br />
<br />
<i>(synopsis from <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/56922663-the-smart-cookie">Goodreads</a>)</i></blockquote>
<br /><div>I finally got my hands on <i>The Smart Cookie</i>, the fifth book in Jory John and Pete Oswald's series about sentient foodstuffs. It's just as cute as the others.</div><div><br /></div><div>In this case, we're introduced to a cookie with a problem. She appears to have some sort of learning disability; even though she tries hard, she just can't keep up sometimes. So she thinks she's not that smart. But when her teacher, Ms. Biscotti, assigns some creative homework, the cookie gains confidence as she realizes that there are many different ways to be smart.</div><div><br /></div><div>This is another fun book in The Food Group series. Check out my reviews for the other books:</div><div><br /></div><div><i><a href="https://theladybugreads.blogspot.com/2018/09/review-bad-seed.html">The Bad Seed</a></i></div><div><i><a href="https://theladybugreads.blogspot.com/2019/09/review-good-egg.html">The Good Egg</a></i></div><div><i><a href="https://theladybugreads.blogspot.com/2021/10/review-great-eggscape.html">The Great Eggscape</a></i></div><div><i><a href="https://theladybugreads.blogspot.com/2020/04/review-cool-bean.html">The Cool Bean</a></i></div><div><i><a href="https://theladybugreads.blogspot.com/2020/11/review-couch-potato.html">The Couch Potato</a></i></div><div><i><a href="http://theladybugreads.blogspot.com/2023/01/review-sour-grape.html">The Sour Grape</a></i></div><div><br /></div><div>
Premise: 4/5<br />
Meter: n/a<br />
Writing: 4/5<br />
Illustrations: 4/5 <br />
Originality: 4/5<br />
<br />
Enjoyment: 4/5 <br />
<br />
Overall: 4 out of 5<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhusTJEUsAop2A2GyoONjl2K-tPZnoNyYGTPjKPs6XFVfzn3O8-31-x0iFl4EY3rIg3u7KwtjRkV136WUjlFBU6rl2IRrzcIlyCIj3Cy88xt9-RH5AH1YCtVJee-Pl6EfgZWx984FrUO5I/s400/4bugs.png" /></div>La Coccinellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03118313017081994087noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8107652553845392650.post-32599832146158652382023-01-02T14:23:00.000-08:002023-01-02T14:23:25.677-08:00Review - The Sour Grape<blockquote>
<i><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4RDD6Hok1WB5_7_3CgJSFBv3x0MIqSDOiRLACry8kQZhileQcwh1EloYmzCZiIEQfoWNn_8ZkEaidodI_vHM2vYpsnvJTs39ACGKOgpRPS8iwFMRa2qQR5c2rTNeOr2_44DdbWfPFSZiLYX3HpMIu9951wE6loS4-pBq6yIhtOkm3NC9auzZxQw2F/s388/TheSourGrape.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4RDD6Hok1WB5_7_3CgJSFBv3x0MIqSDOiRLACry8kQZhileQcwh1EloYmzCZiIEQfoWNn_8ZkEaidodI_vHM2vYpsnvJTs39ACGKOgpRPS8iwFMRa2qQR5c2rTNeOr2_44DdbWfPFSZiLYX3HpMIu9951wE6loS4-pBq6yIhtOkm3NC9auzZxQw2F/s320/TheSourGrape.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>The Sour Grape</b></i> (The Food Group #6)<br />
by Jory John<br />
illustrated by Pete Oswald<br />
Date: 2022<br />
Publisher: HarperCollins<br />
Reading level: C<br />
Book type: picture book<br />
Pages: 40<br />
Format: e-book<br />
Source: library<br />
<br />
The Sour Grape holds grudges for every reason under the sun. Lime never returned a scarf they borrowed? Grudge! Orange never called back? Grudge! But when a friend holds a grudge against the Sour Grape without listening to an explanation, the Sour Grape realizes how unfair grudges can be. Could a bunch of forgiveness and compassion be enough to turn a sour grape sweet?
<br /><br />
Jory John and Pete Oswald serve up another heaping plate of laughs and lessons with this empowering, witty, and charming addition to their #1 <i>New York Times</i> bestselling series!
<br />
<br />
<i>(synopsis from <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60323120-the-sour-grape">Goodreads</a>)</i></blockquote>
<br /><div>In the newest instalment of Jory John and Pete Oswald's series about emotional foodstuffs, a sour grape comes to the realization that, by holding grudges and being negative, they're cheating themselves out of the good things in life: friendship, gratitude, and inner peace.</div><div><br /></div><div>The illustrations are cute, as they always are in these books. The text is simple, while also utilizing some challenging vocabulary (a feature I always appreciate in picture books when it's done well).</div><div><br /></div><div>All in all, this is a nice addition to The Food Group series. Check out my reviews for some of the other books:</div><div><br /></div><div><i><a href="https://theladybugreads.blogspot.com/2018/09/review-bad-seed.html">The Bad Seed</a></i></div><div><i><a href="https://theladybugreads.blogspot.com/2019/09/review-good-egg.html">The Good Egg</a></i></div><div><i><a href="https://theladybugreads.blogspot.com/2021/10/review-great-eggscape.html">The Great Eggscape</a></i></div><div><i><a href="https://theladybugreads.blogspot.com/2020/04/review-cool-bean.html">The Cool Bean</a></i></div><div><i><a href="https://theladybugreads.blogspot.com/2020/11/review-couch-potato.html">The Couch Potato</a></i></div><div><br /></div><div>
Premise: 4/5<br />
Meter: n/a<br />
Writing: 4/5<br />
Illustrations: 4/5 <br />
Originality: 4/5<br />
<br />
Enjoyment: 4/5 <br />
<br />
Overall: 4 out of 5<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhusTJEUsAop2A2GyoONjl2K-tPZnoNyYGTPjKPs6XFVfzn3O8-31-x0iFl4EY3rIg3u7KwtjRkV136WUjlFBU6rl2IRrzcIlyCIj3Cy88xt9-RH5AH1YCtVJee-Pl6EfgZWx984FrUO5I/s400/4bugs.png" /></div>La Coccinellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03118313017081994087noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8107652553845392650.post-8964812592051373612022-12-18T10:57:00.000-08:002022-12-18T10:57:53.794-08:00Review - Fonchito and the Moon<blockquote>
<i><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFcDI3q0xgYALTVQrBhDtxrvbefdwEtEN_TNfmP1xfY1ZKXUjOaXEgXgBuBAtHgEERLkZEKboXPMPlEzNlFSfsTFLDD8N6_lxT2PHO2i1cNpavjIogcMU9liaWPlBaIW46jUOALUZ2cetQ1-SY_aMqdhZxX6ufy7Tjf9_DPEoZVGJ88aOfReQe8TeT/s318/FonchitoAndTheMoon.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFcDI3q0xgYALTVQrBhDtxrvbefdwEtEN_TNfmP1xfY1ZKXUjOaXEgXgBuBAtHgEERLkZEKboXPMPlEzNlFSfsTFLDD8N6_lxT2PHO2i1cNpavjIogcMU9liaWPlBaIW46jUOALUZ2cetQ1-SY_aMqdhZxX6ufy7Tjf9_DPEoZVGJ88aOfReQe8TeT/s1600/FonchitoAndTheMoon.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Fonchito and the Moon</b></i><br />
by Mario Vargas Llosa<br />
illustrated by Marta Chicote Juiz<br />
Date: 2010<br />
Publisher: Kales Press<br />
Reading level: C<br />
Book type: picture book<br />
Pages: 40<br />
Format: e-book<br />
Source: library<br />
<br />
<b>Don't miss your first Mario Vargas Llosa: <i>Fonchito and the Moon</i>.</b>
<br /><br />
Fonchito falls in love for the very first time and discovers that there is nothing one cannot do for a loved one, even if what they wish for is the moon!
<br />
<br />
<i>(synopsis from <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60691689-fonchito-and-the-moon">Goodreads</a>)</i></blockquote>
<br /><div>Somehow, I expected more from "one of the world's greatest writers". I don't know if something was lost in translation or what. But I found this cringey more than charming, and the abrupt ending didn't help.</div><div><br /></div><div>Fonchito is obsessed with a little girl at school. He basically objectifies her, and he wants to kiss her on the cheek because she's pretty. (At least he asks permission.) Nereida, visibly embarrassed, sets the boy an impossible condition: If he wants that kiss, he has to bring her the moon.</div><div><br /></div><div>The rest of the story is a little bit clunky, and I'm not sure if that's down to the translation or if the story itself is just weak. Fonchito figures out a way to bring Nereida the moon. The boy gets his kiss. The end.</div><div><br /></div><div>There's something to be said for simplicity in picture books, but this goes so far beyond simple that it doesn't really have any substance. Fonchito only wants to kiss the girl because she's beautiful. Not because she's smart or strong or clever enough to try to thwart a horny little boy with a seemingly impossible errand. (I mean... she obviously didn't really want that kiss if she made the condition that difficult to achieve.)</div><div><br /></div><div>The illustrations are sort of cute, but the story just isn't enough. The author's adult books may be great; I don't know. But being a good writer for adults doesn't automatically mean you'll be a great writer for kids. This picture book is a perfect example of that.</div><div>
<br />
Premise: 2/5<br />
Meter: n/a<br />
Writing: 3/5<br />
Illustrations: 3/5 <br />
Originality: 3/5<br />
<br />
Enjoyment: 2/5 <br />
<br />
Overall: 2.5 out of 5<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM2Wh2zzgchPwLSJbFu1YII0pi_ExXd5JI0Cf3zIhd8HP1EpMai8q3GlrOhyphenhyphenHRt8TSECF5gQvUIKfO34RQwSdUlAqNItTCw0SfvlU9jtT_JH6BVhyphenhyphenTjsL872vKXYAx-Ueo6zuLEzXP2WE/s1600/2andahalfbugs.png" /></div>La Coccinellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03118313017081994087noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8107652553845392650.post-38470174501925928712022-12-05T16:41:00.001-08:002022-12-05T16:41:11.435-08:00Review - I Don't Care<blockquote>
<i><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHqcoSbNaJGxIYAdTS12rYjXyLaDu4AV49FC1iAzsZn3kdhgs_qeG-bzfKvouPIEilHZhcrCrh7F7pfLmj2xsZqWzyDnnBJuWcZdYNhVUs85CDK8bcvIUJJEW-Tv1lP-r_RVdMptVnH4Vi-peYJpskOrAKcF1OX50qlIVgnOWT0NVGQ9UvR1IxxmWu/s318/IDontCare.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHqcoSbNaJGxIYAdTS12rYjXyLaDu4AV49FC1iAzsZn3kdhgs_qeG-bzfKvouPIEilHZhcrCrh7F7pfLmj2xsZqWzyDnnBJuWcZdYNhVUs85CDK8bcvIUJJEW-Tv1lP-r_RVdMptVnH4Vi-peYJpskOrAKcF1OX50qlIVgnOWT0NVGQ9UvR1IxxmWu/s1600/IDontCare.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>I Don't Care</b></i><br />
by Julie Fogliano<br />
illustrated by Molly Idle & Juana Martinez-Neal<br />
Date: 2022<br />
Publisher: Neal Porter Books<br />
Reading level: C<br />
Book type: picture book<br />
Pages: 40<br />
Format: e-book<br />
Source: library<br />
<br />
<b>A <i>New York Times</i> bestselling author and two Caldecott Honorees share their delight in the little things that set two friends apart, and the big things that bring them together.</b>
<br /><br />
<i>I really don't care what you think of my hair<br />
Or my eyes or my toes or my nose<br />
I really don't care what you think of my boots<br />
Or if you don't like my clothes. . .
<br /><br />
Mostly I care that you're you and I'm me<br />
And I care that we're us and we're we.</i>
<br /><br />
This rhythmic, rhyming text by award-winning author Julie Fogliano celebrates the similarities and differences between two unlikely best friends. It will be illustrated by two recent Caldecott Honorees, each depicting one of the characters, Molly Idle and Juana Martinez-Neal.
<br />
<br />
<i>(synopsis from <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60373711-i-don-t-care">Goodreads</a>)</i></blockquote>
<br /><div>This is a cute rhyming picture book about two friends and the things they don't and do care about. It's a great lesson in priorities and concentrating on what's truly important.</div><div><br /></div><div>The pictures, a collaborative effort between Molly Idle and Juana Martinez-Neal, are adorable.</div><div><br /></div><div>Recommended to those looking for simple picture books about values.</div><div>
<br />
Premise: 5/5<br />
Meter: 4/5<br />
Writing: 4/5<br />
Illustrations: 5/5 <br />
Originality: 4/5<br />
<br />
Enjoyment: 5/5 <br />
<br />
Overall: 4.57 out of 5<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEznchWSVa-V3yPUb10e1jjXcMwkFvJSz3LyYvICT2O0iXc-mv5RatwPISYf26TucAoUsGxjG0N4b6nlLDoLxfT1QLV7Jxt7QP5nB9y53b7TLaZsnSdHFip-x0saOzx_OacUQbTKc-nh8/s1600/4andahalfbugs.png" /></div>La Coccinellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03118313017081994087noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8107652553845392650.post-38127753505226878932022-11-24T11:30:00.000-08:002022-11-24T11:30:00.316-08:00Review - Santiago's Dinosaurios<blockquote>
<i><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPuOSaYFa0UAGdJoKYvPKPbFDvWUOHmNEMrlzxebgOmrmGGzQFHMHdXlx2zi_Pz3VfxEgJWjzHsOeqEVDeFO1bPNWzqG9rph-vIVapR2xdUndCrVdQv01jwvtaW_pclgwJNqFJIld2NWbRUdAiaTDmRXab0riKqF6C6FKahQVfcTGOBRlp79CgGCj5/s394/SantiagosDinosaurios.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPuOSaYFa0UAGdJoKYvPKPbFDvWUOHmNEMrlzxebgOmrmGGzQFHMHdXlx2zi_Pz3VfxEgJWjzHsOeqEVDeFO1bPNWzqG9rph-vIVapR2xdUndCrVdQv01jwvtaW_pclgwJNqFJIld2NWbRUdAiaTDmRXab0riKqF6C6FKahQVfcTGOBRlp79CgGCj5/s320/SantiagosDinosaurios.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Santiago's Dinosaurios</b></i><br />
by Mariana Ríos Ramírez<br />
illustrated by Udayana Lugo<br />
Date: 2022<br />
Publisher: Albert Whitman & Company<br />
Reading level: C<br />
Book type: picture book<br />
Pages: 32<br />
Format: e-book<br />
Source: library<br />
<br />
<b>Santiago finds a way to connect to his classmates--through dinosaurios!</b>
<br /><br />
Santiago is new to the United States, and he doesn't speak English. On his first day of school, how will he connect with his peers? Santiago learns that even when you don't speak the same language, some interests are universal.
<br />
<br />
<i>(synopsis from <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60373302-santiago-s-dinosaurios">Goodreads</a>)</i></blockquote>
<br /><div>Moving to a new place can be tough, especially when you don't understand the language. Santiago and his family have just moved to the United States from Mexico. He doesn't speak much English, so he finds it hard to communicate with his classmates. But he loves dinosaurs... and he soon finds a way to use his passion as a way to break the ice with the other kids.</div><div><br /></div><div>This well-written story is highlighted by delightful illustrations that clearly show Santiago's emotions as he tries to navigate his first day in a new school.</div><div><br /></div><div>Overall, I'd definitely recommend this book. For another cute title with a similar theme, check out Aidan Cassie's <i><a href="https://theladybugreads.blogspot.com/2020/10/review-word-for-friend.html">The Word for Friend</a></i>.</div><div>
<br />
Premise: 4/5<br />
Meter: n/a<br />
Writing: 4/5<br />
Illustrations: 5/5 <br />
Originality: 4/5<br />
<br />
Enjoyment: 5/5 <br />
<br />
Overall: 4.5 out of 5<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEznchWSVa-V3yPUb10e1jjXcMwkFvJSz3LyYvICT2O0iXc-mv5RatwPISYf26TucAoUsGxjG0N4b6nlLDoLxfT1QLV7Jxt7QP5nB9y53b7TLaZsnSdHFip-x0saOzx_OacUQbTKc-nh8/s1600/4andahalfbugs.png" /></div>La Coccinellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03118313017081994087noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8107652553845392650.post-34826481703889962882022-11-24T11:12:00.005-08:002022-11-24T11:12:57.762-08:00Review - Wally the World's Greatest Piano-Playing Wombat<blockquote>
<i><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAZcZ6xfRkBm_Rfq24NDN3wu14JGP7SYIN_daFWVTTwgQvT_CYj-7FnGLWlmm4eTq3PXvwFrBZZhi15nkrPWLvHdezwYkd9o-CxaA7A8n0yyhbxegJXkcOCHOcoVe7mFNiVM9G2tuVIDnn7EAY5exGsybuszQbAk3VKluYuuqTMtErxrvu-fxi0slM/s390/WallyTheWorldsGreatest.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAZcZ6xfRkBm_Rfq24NDN3wu14JGP7SYIN_daFWVTTwgQvT_CYj-7FnGLWlmm4eTq3PXvwFrBZZhi15nkrPWLvHdezwYkd9o-CxaA7A8n0yyhbxegJXkcOCHOcoVe7mFNiVM9G2tuVIDnn7EAY5exGsybuszQbAk3VKluYuuqTMtErxrvu-fxi0slM/s320/WallyTheWorldsGreatest.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Wally the World's Greatest Piano-Playing Wombat</b></i><br />
by Ratha Tep<br />
illustrated by Camilla Pintonato<br />
Date: 2022<br />
Publisher: Princeton Architectural Press<br />
Reading level: C<br />
Book type: picture book<br />
Pages: 40<br />
Format: e-book<br />
Source: library<br />
<br />
Wally was the world’s greatest piano-playing wombat—until he realized there was an even more talented piano-playing wombat in town! This funny picture book’s bright colors and imaginative musical scenes teach children to have self-confidence when faced with competition.
<br /><br />
When Wally, the world’s greatest piano-playing wombat, hears Wylie play, he becomes envious. Wally tries toe-tapping and ball-twirling as he plays piano, but every time Wally thinks he’s one-upping the competition, he discovers Wylie can do all the same tricks.
<br /><br />
Although Wally is discouraged at first, he soon realizes that competing with Wylie inspires them both to play better. And finding a friend to share what you love? That’s the best win of all. Both affirming and motivating, Wally’s story will resonate with young readers as they learn how to deal with competition and to do what makes them happy—even when they’re not the very best.
<br />
<br />
<i>(synopsis from <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60420477-wally-the-world-s-greatest-piano-playing-wombat">Goodreads</a>)</i></blockquote>
<br /><div>This picture book tells the story of Wally, a piano-playing wombat who wants to be the greatest. But when another wombat comes along and steals all of Wally's tricks, he gets frustrated and gives up. If he can't be the best, he doesn't want to do it at all! But Wally soon comes to realize that the competition with the other wombat was making them both better artists... so they hatch a plan to have the greatest show ever.</div><div><br /></div><div>The story is fairly basic, but has a nice message. I didn't love the pictures, but they're colourful and work well with the text.</div><div><br /></div><div>Overall, this is a strong picture book with a good message about competition and doing what you love.</div><div>
<br />
Premise: 4/5<br />
Meter: n/a<br />
Writing: 4/5<br />
Illustrations: 3/5 <br />
Originality: 4/5<br />
<br />
Enjoyment: 3/5 <br />
<br />
Overall: 3.5 out of 5<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHecxtBwm-HQ63s2V8c0YOV7cmdl71tS2UhZf6RTbGNkBJEASMfp_jkbhX0Aa5mFSgLvk7TyVGR5x_LVALNKtuoD79NG3Fid5zVNP7ZF8mtfhv0AHvFU4E5i9qkKoq8DS3ful0GkZBZc8/s1600/3andahalfbugs.png" /></div>La Coccinellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03118313017081994087noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8107652553845392650.post-36368831372021431192022-11-22T11:46:00.002-08:002022-11-22T11:50:26.194-08:00Review - Dan Auta: An African Tale<blockquote>
<i><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7XpE4kS_DxDcNm7uoXcisF3494NSrrNkfwPReZul66mw0-UOd7gx8rnXh1aIDmY8iQlDhAdz11ee6pFPcrcto9X4FGgZ6Onn8iDKw_b9StBqaWKPBh5dbC1grIXvNAaxz7kXCDWOfoXd-5hLnvjWWDqTosX_lM1BCha98f0ObNhl7VLRLMLtmifaR/s1000/DanAuta.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7XpE4kS_DxDcNm7uoXcisF3494NSrrNkfwPReZul66mw0-UOd7gx8rnXh1aIDmY8iQlDhAdz11ee6pFPcrcto9X4FGgZ6Onn8iDKw_b9StBqaWKPBh5dbC1grIXvNAaxz7kXCDWOfoXd-5hLnvjWWDqTosX_lM1BCha98f0ObNhl7VLRLMLtmifaR/s320/DanAuta.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Dan Auta: An African Tale</b></i><br />
by José Ortega y Gasset<br />
illustrated by Piet Grobler<br />
Date: 2022<br />
Publisher: Greystone Kids<br />
Reading level: C<br />
Book type: picture book<br />
Pages: 56<br />
Format: e-book<br />
Source: library<br />
<br />
Kids 9 to 12 will laugh out loud while reading this adventurous graphic novel, which brings an African folk tale to life for a new audience.
<br /><br />
When Sarra’s parents die, they leave her with an important warning: never let Dan Auta, her little brother, cry. But Dan Auta loves to make trouble. He hitches a ride on the back of a bird, pokes the eye of the king’s son, and even pees on the king’s head. Making sure he doesn’t cry is much harder than Sarra thought!
<br /><br />
But Dan Auta’s unbridled curiosity and determination may be exactly what everyone needs: a terrible monster called the Dodo is attacking the city… and Dan Auta is the only one with the courage to take him on. Dan Auta features:
<br /><br />
A delightful celebration of mischief and bravery<br />
A portrait of the extraordinary things kids are capable of when they follow their own paths<br />
Lively illustrations from renowned illustrator Piet Grobler<br />
Supplementary material that explains the folk tale’s significance, including a note from an Eritrean translator
<br />
<br />
<i>(synopsis from <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60491047-dan-auta">Goodreads</a>)</i></blockquote>
<div><br /></div>I honestly don't understand why this book has such good reviews. It's a horrifically sexist tale in which a spoiled brat nearly gets himself and his sister killed three times, and then he gets handsomely rewarded with half a kingdom while all his long-suffering sister gets is the luxury of a nap.<div><br /></div><div>This may be a traditional tale, but I don't know how well it's going to play to modern or Western audiences where girls actually have value beyond their uterus. In this story, a couple has a baby girl and they name her Sarra. They have another baby, who is much more important from the start because he's a boy. They name him Dan Auta.</div><div><br /></div><div>Well, soon the parents die, and though they leave the kids with enough food to last until Dan Auta is old enough to farm the land, they also leave Sarra with an order: Don't ever let Dan Auta cry. As a result, the boy grows up as a spoiled, selfish brat who gets to do whatever he wants (because telling him off makes him cry). First, he burns down the granaries with all their food. So Sarra has to take him and try to find someplace to live where they can eat. They come to a kingdom, and one of the king's wives agrees to take them in. One day, Dan Auta gets bored and uses a stick to poke out the eye of one of the king's sons (this story is <i>totally</i> suitable for children, by the way), so they have to flee. As they're being pursued by the king's guards, they hide in a tree. Dan Auta gets bored and wants to pee on the king's head (no, I'm not making this up), and Sarra, not wanting him to cry if he doesn't get his way, lets him. So the king gets angry and chops down the tree. They fall onto a hawk's back and the bird flies them safely away. But then Dan Auta gets bored again and wants to stick his finger in the bird's butthole (I can't believe I'm actually writing this), and this leads to another near-death experience.</div><div><br /></div><div>Anyway, eventually they come to another kingdom where a monster is terrorizing the populace every night. So of course Dan Auta saves the day, even though he's proven to be nothing but a useless, dangerous burden up until this point. Oh, and we've also got greedy citizens needlessly slaughtering their animals, so it's just a great, wonderful story all around. (I hope you can sense the sarcasm.) Dan Auta is treated like a king for saving the day, and all Sarra gets for keeping her little brother safe is a long-needed nap.</div><div><br /></div><div>Frankly, I don't care if kids think the peeing on heads and anal rape of birds is funny. This book is gross. The story should've stayed where the afterword said it came from: 1912.<br /><div><div><br />
Premise: 2/5<br />
Meter: n/a<br />
Writing: 3/5<br />
Illustrations: 3/5 <br />
Originality: 2/5<br />
<br />
Enjoyment: 0/5<br />
<br />
<b>Overall Rating:</b> 1.67 out of 5 ladybugs<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTeP7sxZIMgX-XyvOTq8eB9U4fiNUJl_4WE7oXPxuGIIQzrHIWucAWBfQ5r0_bHsyG_HgvW5tijwUeKfzFwYq5peARRCsWKRLw3osO2eRxjN7xlaiLK7rCOUa3KvGs9TEQn6ne7gJLWe0/s400/2bugs.png" /></div></div></div>La Coccinellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03118313017081994087noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8107652553845392650.post-2316977758814981152022-11-22T11:11:00.002-08:002022-11-22T11:46:50.769-08:00Review - So Much Snow<blockquote>
<i><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicLbEwIydtYTt46p5Imt_CdcB0m4kEA_Lvt-bfQFVrYGDV7tf85Cyd15NhyC9UGTa2941Ls1cpYPGIwbZdhgduSiThW-_met7k-GMIPXztply4PUWjP_HkRaiIutvAbKuanYBI7iONhC9QsXAlwW-D20_q7p7qqTrocSiTlpsgp8Qqr8xVScrIqbhV/s400/SoMuchSnow.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicLbEwIydtYTt46p5Imt_CdcB0m4kEA_Lvt-bfQFVrYGDV7tf85Cyd15NhyC9UGTa2941Ls1cpYPGIwbZdhgduSiThW-_met7k-GMIPXztply4PUWjP_HkRaiIutvAbKuanYBI7iONhC9QsXAlwW-D20_q7p7qqTrocSiTlpsgp8Qqr8xVScrIqbhV/s320/SoMuchSnow.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>So Much Snow</b></i><br />
by Kristen Schroeder<br />
illustrated by Sarah Jacoby<br />
Date: 2022<br />
Publisher: Random House Studio<br />
Reading level: C<br />
Book type: picture book<br />
Pages: 40<br />
Format: e-book<br />
Source: library<br />
<br />
<b>A beautifully illustrated, rollicking read-aloud about forest animals who are caught--literally up to their ears and antlers--in a snowstorm.</b>
<br /><br />
<i>On Monday, it starts to snow.<br />
Silent swirling.<br />
How high will it go?</i>
<br /><br />
Follow seven forest creatures, from a tiny mouse to a giant moose, as they hunker down in a snowstorm. As the week progresses, the snow piles up and up--even past Moose's antlers!
<br /><br />
On Sunday, the sun starts to melt the snow, and it seems that, as the next week passes and it grows sunnier, spring has finally sprung. But wait...is that more snow?! This cumulative picture book is at once beautiful and lyrical and playful and joyful, with charming illustrations by a highly acclaimed illustrator.
<br />
<br />
<i>(synopsis from <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/59856874-so-much-snow">Goodreads</a>)</i></blockquote>
<br /><div>This is a cute picture book that shows the progression through a snowfall and the subsequent melt, featuring cute animals interacting with the snow. After seven days of snow covering the landscape, the snowfall melts and the animals are revealed in reverse order. Everything looks green again, but then... there's a surprise.</div><div><br /></div><div>The illustrations are cute, and the text, while spare, works as a nice accompaniment.</div><div><br /></div><div>Definitely a winner for those looking for books about the seasons and/or cute animals.</div><div>
<br />
Premise: 4/5<br />
Meter: n/a<br />
Writing: 4/5<br />
Illustrations: 4/5 <br />
Originality: 4/5<br />
<br />
Enjoyment: 4/5 <br />
<br />
Overall: 4 out of 5<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhusTJEUsAop2A2GyoONjl2K-tPZnoNyYGTPjKPs6XFVfzn3O8-31-x0iFl4EY3rIg3u7KwtjRkV136WUjlFBU6rl2IRrzcIlyCIj3Cy88xt9-RH5AH1YCtVJee-Pl6EfgZWx984FrUO5I/s400/4bugs.png" /></div>La Coccinellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03118313017081994087noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8107652553845392650.post-53712402330741809062022-11-10T16:58:00.001-08:002022-11-10T16:58:53.936-08:00Review - The Flamingo<blockquote>
<i><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilpiO7uK3PER7UdNrQF_lPlIkoB6yVXrZ1-vSIsKlbDbYldxrwR_oRWnoUZkf1Q19GWDB6d9rwtDoQQYzR54IC_s0coSB1s-7z4NxvfxIY6j-4UVHjK707qAsIA9iIk_piXEwtbAdT63PP__jbdo0fdD_MEYh157iC241PYtxArlgP37Wy7_Pf-5Xq/s395/TheFlamingo.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilpiO7uK3PER7UdNrQF_lPlIkoB6yVXrZ1-vSIsKlbDbYldxrwR_oRWnoUZkf1Q19GWDB6d9rwtDoQQYzR54IC_s0coSB1s-7z4NxvfxIY6j-4UVHjK707qAsIA9iIk_piXEwtbAdT63PP__jbdo0fdD_MEYh157iC241PYtxArlgP37Wy7_Pf-5Xq/s320/TheFlamingo.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>The Flamingo: A Graphic Novel Chapter Book</b></i><br />
by Guojing<br />
Date: 2022<br />
Publisher: Random House Studio<br />
Reading level: C<br />
Book type: picture book<br />
Pages: 144<br />
Format: e-book<br />
Source: library<br />
<br />
<b>From a highly acclaimed illustrator comes a stunning graphic novel filled with adventure and wonder about an imaginative girl and her obsession with flamingoes.</b>
<br /><br />
A little girl arrives, excited for a beachy vacation with her Lao Lao. The girl and her grandmother search for shells, chase crabs, and play in the sea, but when the girl finds an exquisite flamingo feather in her grandmother's living room, her vacation turns into something fantastical.
<br />
<br />
<i>(synopsis from <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60372305-the-flamingo">Goodreads</a>)</i></blockquote>
<div><br /></div>I'm not sure why the subtitle of this one is "a graphic novel chapter book". It's more like a really long, (mostly) wordless picture book with two parts. There are no real "chapters" to speak of. In fact, there are only a few sentences of text, so the book could be suitable for pre-reading kids as well.<div><br /></div><div>Actually, readers of all ages will probably find something to delight them in this story about a young girl who goes to visit her grandmother by herself. When she finds a pink feather in her grandmother's house, the old woman tells her a story about a little girl who finds a mysterious egg on the beach.</div><div><br /></div><div>The art is charming. Done in two different colour schemes (a muted, pinkish palette for the real world and a brighter, full-colour palette for the fantasy scenes), the artwork is a showcase of whimsy, imagination, and very cute characters.</div><div><br /></div><div>I previously read <i>Stormy</i> by the same author/illustrator, and was eager to read more of her books. I wasn't disappointed with this one.<br /><div><br />
Premise: 4/5<br />
Meter: n/a<br />
Writing: 4/5<br />
Illustrations: 5/5 <br />
Originality: 4/5<br />
<br />
Enjoyment: 5/5<br />
<br />
<b>Overall Rating:</b> 4.5 out of 5 ladybugs<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEznchWSVa-V3yPUb10e1jjXcMwkFvJSz3LyYvICT2O0iXc-mv5RatwPISYf26TucAoUsGxjG0N4b6nlLDoLxfT1QLV7Jxt7QP5nB9y53b7TLaZsnSdHFip-x0saOzx_OacUQbTKc-nh8/s1600/4andahalfbugs.png" /></div></div>La Coccinellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03118313017081994087noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8107652553845392650.post-11225936686575881822022-11-06T09:54:00.003-08:002022-11-06T09:54:49.030-08:00Review - The Mermaid Moon<blockquote>
<i><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiFYrscTJMOsv5UGgh0LO5pdupp2GPa5PDq2Mr_Rjavw1NtmmMkpIfaQRDQ41whngB9Dxjx0NYuNp-tN6rhDW0saLArI3AJC7Hm7pMFvezhi44mheAySeO6G_fna969i_yk8y_pleBeHk26tPZtAenw_bWfxlMawUAkBds61ITJGZbGTYfPAxggyHU/s387/TheMermaidMoon.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiFYrscTJMOsv5UGgh0LO5pdupp2GPa5PDq2Mr_Rjavw1NtmmMkpIfaQRDQ41whngB9Dxjx0NYuNp-tN6rhDW0saLArI3AJC7Hm7pMFvezhi44mheAySeO6G_fna969i_yk8y_pleBeHk26tPZtAenw_bWfxlMawUAkBds61ITJGZbGTYfPAxggyHU/s320/TheMermaidMoon.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>The Mermaid Moon</b></i><br />
by Briony May Smith<br />
Date: 2022<br />
Publisher: Anne Schwartz Books<br />
Reading level: C<br />
Book type: picture book<br />
Pages: 40<br />
Format: e-book<br />
Source: library<br />
<br />
<b>In this magical picture book perfect for all young mermaid lovers, two best friends--one who lives on land, the other in the water--share an exciting adventure on the night of the Mermaid Moon: the one time each year mermaids can leave the sea.</b>
<br /><br />
<i>Once, there were two best friends. One was from the sea, a mermaid named Merrin, and one was from the land, a human named Molly.</i> Of course Merrin has never been to Molly's house; how can she visit when she must stay underwater? But then comes the night of the Mermaid Moon, when sea creatures can fly through the air! And this year, Merrin is finally old enough to join in. Together she and Molly visit the Mermaid Moon festival, eat ice cream, and ride on a swing in Molly's backyard. But when it is time for Merrin to leave--the moon is sinking toward the sea--she is unable to get down from a tree the girls have climbed. And if she doesn't get back home before the moon sets, the Mermaid Moon magic will disappear from the earth forever.
<br /><br />
Here is a delightful and dramatic picture book that makes every girl's dream of being friends with a mermaid come true!
<br />
<br />
<i>(synopsis from <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60343791-the-mermaid-moon">Goodreads</a>)</i></blockquote>
<br /><div>I read <i><a href="https://theladybugreads.blogspot.com/2020/10/review-margarets-unicorn.html" target="_blank">Margaret's Unicorn</a></i> a couple of years ago and thought it was absolutely charming. Briony May Smith is back with another magical tale, this time about two little girls—one human and one mermaid—who share a magical evening together on a very special night of the year.</div><div><br /></div><div>The stakes are high. (Merrin's mother tells her that if she doesn't make it home to the sea in time, all the magic will be lost. No pressure.) But of course the girls manage to figure out a way to preserve the magic.</div><div><br /></div><div>The illustrations are really cute. Since much of the story takes place at night, lighting casts a dreamy effect over the pictures.</div><div><br /></div><div>This is another winner from Smith. It's sure to be a hit with mermaid lovers, as well as with those looking for sweet picture-book stories about friendship.</div><div>
<br />
Premise: 4/5<br />
Meter: n/a<br />
Writing: 4/5<br />
Illustrations: 4/5 <br />
Originality: 5/5<br />
<br />
Enjoyment: 5/5 <br />
<br />
Overall: 4.5 out of 5<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEznchWSVa-V3yPUb10e1jjXcMwkFvJSz3LyYvICT2O0iXc-mv5RatwPISYf26TucAoUsGxjG0N4b6nlLDoLxfT1QLV7Jxt7QP5nB9y53b7TLaZsnSdHFip-x0saOzx_OacUQbTKc-nh8/s1600/4andahalfbugs.png" /></div>La Coccinellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03118313017081994087noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8107652553845392650.post-13139989942008915592022-08-28T10:21:00.004-07:002022-08-28T10:25:07.090-07:00Review - Mariposa: A Tiny Seed's Big Transformation<blockquote>
<i><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTIcJYvt9QEH8GqnUrpi9sU2E48tWkzAu1pi3dZmbal5CIDUXUZ8IWATQg_pMkEaa9krRQB5kaYh7qBlq6WIynJChMDuPH_eijLsjYVsnQStwz8FjwM5Fjm4Ofx6FrX34WZaVV16UJMxoaxT0KfdYl52DDqxMn1dYxHrCKaTET47sX3cI0eaT6vIzg/s323/Mariposa.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTIcJYvt9QEH8GqnUrpi9sU2E48tWkzAu1pi3dZmbal5CIDUXUZ8IWATQg_pMkEaa9krRQB5kaYh7qBlq6WIynJChMDuPH_eijLsjYVsnQStwz8FjwM5Fjm4Ofx6FrX34WZaVV16UJMxoaxT0KfdYl52DDqxMn1dYxHrCKaTET47sX3cI0eaT6vIzg/s320/Mariposa.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Mariposa: A Tiny Seed's Big Transformation</b></i><br />
by Leigh Anne Fortner<br />
illustrated by Anastassiya Selezneva<br />
Date: 2022<br />
Publisher: Leigh Anne Fortner<br />
Reading level: C<br />
Book type: picture book<br />
Pages: 24<br />
Format: e-book<br />
Source: Amazon<br />
<br />
<b><i>Growing Can Be Hard...Especially for a Seed!!!</i></b><br /><br />
In this beautifully illustrated story in rhyme, a tiny seed is just starting her life in the desert. It seems that nothing can survive in such a harsh environment, or at least that is what she is led to believe...
<br /><br />
Can she survive the scorching desert sun?
<br /><br />
Will she allow the negative opinions of others to shape her own thoughts?
<br /><br />
Will the storm winds sweep her away before she discovers her true identity?
<br /><br />
Come along and follow Mariposa's journey of transformation, and teach your kids that we are <i>ALL created with purpose and love.</i>
<br />
<br />
<i>(synopsis from Amazon; see it on <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61654779-mariposa">Goodreads</a>)</i></blockquote>
<br /><div>Let me preface this by saying that I'm not the audience for this book. I don't read a lot of Christian fiction. And this book does have a religious bent to it, which isn't exactly clear from the synopsis. (Unless you look at the Amazon categories, it's not obvious.)</div><div><br /></div><div>That said, I still want to share my thoughts on this picture book. It's a story told in rhyme about a seed in the desert who grows into a plant. Everyone around her is pretty negative, telling her she's worthless... or even telling her she's things she clearly isn't. (That part was confusing for me. Why was the coyote trying to convince the plant that she was a deadly snake? Is this a religious thing I'm not familiar with?)</div><div><br /></div><div>The text started off just okay for me. The rhythm is fairly strong at the beginning, although it gets a little sketchy later on. The writing is less impressive. Comma splices are abundant, and though a child listening to the story won't know that, it's kind of annoying to adult readers who can see the words. Anyway, what starts off as a simple story headed in a good direction kind of goes off the rails as God starts booming down from above, solving all the main character's problems. It's literally a <i>deus ex machina!</i> I would've liked to see the flower come to her conclusions about herself on her own... not be told by God.</div><div><br /></div><div>The illustrations by Anastassiya Selezneva are probably the best part of this book. The characters are cute and appealing, and the warm colour palette really evokes the scorching desert.</div><div><br /></div><div>I would probably only recommend this to parents who are looking for Christian picture books to read aloud, and who don't mind all the protagonist's problems being solved by the literal voice of God.</div><div>
<br />
Premise: 3/5<br />
Meter: 3/5<br />
Writing: 3/5<br />
Illustrations: 4/5 <br />
Originality: 4/5<br />
<br />
Enjoyment: 3/5 <br />
<br />
Overall: 3.29 out of 5<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHecxtBwm-HQ63s2V8c0YOV7cmdl71tS2UhZf6RTbGNkBJEASMfp_jkbhX0Aa5mFSgLvk7TyVGR5x_LVALNKtuoD79NG3Fid5zVNP7ZF8mtfhv0AHvFU4E5i9qkKoq8DS3ful0GkZBZc8/s1600/3andahalfbugs.png" /></div>La Coccinellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03118313017081994087noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8107652553845392650.post-10886746493671410922022-07-02T10:23:00.000-07:002022-07-02T10:23:37.263-07:00Review - Summertime with Snowman Paul<blockquote>
<i><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcCpYyqeu5q01lSWJFaiwXiyJbJglXki5zYvQH2PqASwzVOWpr9ej5X6go2RVFlwsiEBO2sU2DC9hZlzza7HcKxxrgU4rI8cTTUDs7Jd8dXMvpu_UlpNauIJ2QdezAhrxgb2Wyb-G9vVCJKYcGo1UYs0zznCVQ_jGy9AlvMwDA7in28-aLvBTCakf0/s397/SummertimeWithSnowmanPaul.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcCpYyqeu5q01lSWJFaiwXiyJbJglXki5zYvQH2PqASwzVOWpr9ej5X6go2RVFlwsiEBO2sU2DC9hZlzza7HcKxxrgU4rI8cTTUDs7Jd8dXMvpu_UlpNauIJ2QdezAhrxgb2Wyb-G9vVCJKYcGo1UYs0zznCVQ_jGy9AlvMwDA7in28-aLvBTCakf0/s320/SummertimeWithSnowmanPaul.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Summertime with Snowman Paul</b></i> (Snowman Paul)<br />
by Yossi Lapid<br />
illustrated by Joanna Pasek<br />
Date: 2022<br />
Publisher: Yosef Lapid<br />
Reading level: C<br />
Book type: picture book<br />
Pages: 46<br />
Format: e-book<br />
Source: author<br />
<br />
Can a Snowman have Fun in the Summertime?
<br /><br />
“The story has excellent kid appeal, presenting endearing characters and a cheerful summer setting.” – Kirkus Reviews
<br /><br />
Sure, Paul is a snowman – but should that preclude him from having fun with his best friend all year long (including the Summer)?
<br /><br />
Snowman Paul doesn’t think so, but hot summer days do pose some obvious problems for a snowman.
<br /><br />
Snowman Paul is ready to give up when his best friend (Dan) comes up with a brilliant idea that saves the day.
<br /><br />
“A wonderful book meant to teach children the values of friendship and perseverance. Kids will have a blast reading the book.” Readers’ Favorite
<br /><br />
Funny and stunningly illustrated with full-page watercolors, this tale will delight children and parents alike. It is ideal for beginner readers, and it will make bedtime fun for toddlers, preschoolers, and even older kids. It makes a great gift, and it belongs in any children's books library.
<br />
<br />
<i>(synopsis from <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61336060-summertime-with-snowman-paul-bedtime-stories-early-readers-seasons-f">Goodreads</a>)</i></blockquote>
<br />Snowman Paul is back, and this time he's braving the summer heat!<div><br /></div><div>This instalment of Yossi Lapid and Joanna Pasek's cute picture-book series does require a bit more suspension of disbelief than some of the others. A snowman in winter? Makes sense. A snowman in summer? Well... I'm sure you can see the issues. For his part, Snowman Paul realizes he doesn't really fit in with summer. However, he seems to be more concerned about how other people see him than... you know... melting into a puddle of water during a heatwave.</div><div><br /></div><div>But never mind. The story is cute, with the narrator, Dan (who also happens to be Paul's best friend), helping the snowman come up with a plan to make summers a little more bearable.</div><div><br /></div><div>Pasek's illustrations are lovely, as usual, and really set the tone for a sweet summer read.</div><div><br /></div><div>Maybe a snowman is just what we need to keep cool during the summer months!<br />
<br />
<i>Thank you to Yossi Lapid for </i><i><i>the e-book copy of </i></i>Summertime with Snowman Paul<i><i></i>.</i> <br />
<br />
Premise: 3/5<br />
Meter: 3/5<br />
Writing: 3/5<br />
Illustrations: 4/5 <br />
Originality: 4/5<br />
<br />
Enjoyment: 4/5 <br />
<br />
Overall: 3.57 out of 5<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHecxtBwm-HQ63s2V8c0YOV7cmdl71tS2UhZf6RTbGNkBJEASMfp_jkbhX0Aa5mFSgLvk7TyVGR5x_LVALNKtuoD79NG3Fid5zVNP7ZF8mtfhv0AHvFU4E5i9qkKoq8DS3ful0GkZBZc8/s1600/3andahalfbugs.png" /></div>La Coccinellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03118313017081994087noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8107652553845392650.post-53159747243682654142022-07-01T12:00:00.003-07:002022-07-01T12:00:49.024-07:00Review - Mommy, Mommy, Where Is the Moon?<blockquote>
<i><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEEqR800Zhbt4HpjaGaQV58pf3ZEDgbb_a-mNamVTyq834aegnPqL69-yHehkdbNPeMT4COnSAVxEMLkag6qby0QKXEHcCd9NXyvM-5lPDTf9_oFkdOuLyeklIRxycNhq5ys09bjD90pcolVN0nCFj7xY2IIikq9f6tB8itWnnZO0VencAUKlLbwwi/s323/MommyMommyWhereIsTheMoon.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEEqR800Zhbt4HpjaGaQV58pf3ZEDgbb_a-mNamVTyq834aegnPqL69-yHehkdbNPeMT4COnSAVxEMLkag6qby0QKXEHcCd9NXyvM-5lPDTf9_oFkdOuLyeklIRxycNhq5ys09bjD90pcolVN0nCFj7xY2IIikq9f6tB8itWnnZO0VencAUKlLbwwi/s320/MommyMommyWhereIsTheMoon.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Mommy, Mommy, Where Is the Moon?</b></i><br />
by Serene Chia<br />
illustrated by Sinem Kılıç Rabito<br />
Date: 2022<br />
Publisher: Serene Chia<br />
Reading level: C<br />
Book type: picture book<br />
Pages: 34<br />
Format: e-book<br />
Source: Amazon<br />
<br />
<b>A delightful bedtime story to be shared with your little ones before you tuck them in!</b>
<br /><br />
Kaitlyn and her mommy love to spend their nights looking for the Moon. Sometimes, they find it. Other times, the Moon plays peek-a-boo.
<br /><br />
<i>“Mommy, Mommy,” said Kaitlyn. “Where is the Moon?”<br />
“It’s up there,” said Mom. “Are you looking hard enough?”<br />
“There!” Kaitlyn pointed. “It’s hiding. Silly Moon.”
<br /><br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><i>Creates a fun bedtime ritual with your children</i></li><li><i>Learn new fun facts about the Moon together</i>
</li></ul></i><br />
Come join Kaitlyn and her mommy on their search and pick up some fun and interesting Moon facts along the way!
<br />
<br />
<i>(synopsis from Amazon; see it on <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61220975-mommy-mommy-where-is-the-moon">Goodreads</a>)</i></blockquote>
<br /><div>I'm not quite sure how to rate this one. The story is simple. The illustrations are adorable. Kids will probably like it. On the other hand, the use of too many (ugly) fonts, the inability to distinguish between dialogue tags and action beats, and a confusing remark about the moon might make adults think twice.</div><div><br /></div><div>The book revolves around a little girl named Kaitlyn, who notices the moon (or lack thereof) in the sky and asks her mother a series of questions about it. She wants to know where it is when she can't see it. Sometimes it's hidden by clouds. Sometimes it's behind buildings. Other times, it's just in a different phase. (This is the part I felt was confusing. Kaitlyn's mother tells her she can't see the moon because "it moved in front of the Sun". I don't think that's quite the right way to phrase that; wouldn't that technically be an eclipse?)</div><div><br /></div><div>The pictures are super cute and very colourful, with lots to look at. They're probably the strongest part of the book. Unfortunately, the integration of the text on the pages sometimes seems a bit amateurish, and it looks like an afterthought.</div><div><br /></div><div>There are some activity pages at the back, but I don't think they're really necessary.</div><div><br /></div><div>Overall, this is an okay picture book. I can see it having appeal at bedtime, especially given the subject matter.</div><div>
<br />
Premise: 4/5<br />
Meter: n/a<br />
Writing: 3/5<br />
Illustrations: 4/5 <br />
Originality: 3/5<br />
<br />
Enjoyment: 3/5 <br />
<br />
Overall: 3.33 out of 5<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHecxtBwm-HQ63s2V8c0YOV7cmdl71tS2UhZf6RTbGNkBJEASMfp_jkbhX0Aa5mFSgLvk7TyVGR5x_LVALNKtuoD79NG3Fid5zVNP7ZF8mtfhv0AHvFU4E5i9qkKoq8DS3ful0GkZBZc8/s1600/3andahalfbugs.png" /></div>La Coccinellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03118313017081994087noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8107652553845392650.post-41024216220831151752022-06-01T12:25:00.002-07:002022-06-01T12:25:34.698-07:00Review - Sharing Daddy<blockquote>
<i><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2VYtw9sUhUROQDydfRucAD3OYl_bZ723y-V2fpA0JjriSWl2PtTDDBf8KbOQRhcxOStCmmWxAV424CC4FZPdzsMkDnqHggVCZZLcpriKeO0rmxONedWAFybPk6eNEpvujzu4017JB92Uf-611p7GNhl3OepwLwEBGxZr7FMM842kNmGm0Hg7tMrs-/s318/SharingDaddy.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2VYtw9sUhUROQDydfRucAD3OYl_bZ723y-V2fpA0JjriSWl2PtTDDBf8KbOQRhcxOStCmmWxAV424CC4FZPdzsMkDnqHggVCZZLcpriKeO0rmxONedWAFybPk6eNEpvujzu4017JB92Uf-611p7GNhl3OepwLwEBGxZr7FMM842kNmGm0Hg7tMrs-/s1600/SharingDaddy.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Sharing Daddy</b></i><br />
by Roberta Borg<br />
illustrated by Bex Sutton<br />
Date: 2022<br />
Publisher: Primal Studios Publishing<br />
Reading level: C<br />
Book type: picture book<br />
Pages: 34<br />
Format: e-book<br />
Source: Amazon<br />
<br />
Roberta Borg’s debut rhythm and rhyme children’s book.
<br /><br />
“We love your Daddy, yes, we do, but sometimes others need him too!”
<br /><br />
“What? But who?”
<br /><br />
Billy loves playing with his daddy, but when his dad is called to an emergency at work, he is left sad and confused by his dad’s abrupt departure from playtime. In this heartwarming story, we join Billy on a journey of emotional growth as he learns about his daddy’s caring profession. So the next time his dad gets called away, Billy’s reaction is rather different…
<br /><br />
All proceeds go to charity.
<br />
<br />
<i>(synopsis from <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61147275-sharing-daddy">Goodreads</a>)</i></blockquote>
<br /><div><i>Sharing Daddy</i> features an interesting premise, namely children having to share their emergency service-worker parents with the general public.</div><div><br /></div><div>The illustrations are cute, and the book is written in rhyme with a strong rhythm.</div><div><br /></div><div>So this is a good book... but I would recommend getting yourself a print version. It was nearly impossible to read on a laptop screen, due to the formatting that kept two full spreads side by side on the screen at all times. This made the text quite small and nearly impossible to read. (I'm not sure what would happen on an e-reader, but I can't imagine it would be any easier!)</div><div><br /></div><div>So the book itself is fine. The e-book formatting... not so much.</div><div>
<br />
Premise: 4/5<br />
Meter: 4/5<br />
Writing: 4/5<br />
Illustrations: 4/5 <br />
Originality: 4/5<br />
<br />
Enjoyment: 4/5 <br />
<br />
Overall: 4 out of 5<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhusTJEUsAop2A2GyoONjl2K-tPZnoNyYGTPjKPs6XFVfzn3O8-31-x0iFl4EY3rIg3u7KwtjRkV136WUjlFBU6rl2IRrzcIlyCIj3Cy88xt9-RH5AH1YCtVJee-Pl6EfgZWx984FrUO5I/s400/4bugs.png" /></div>La Coccinellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03118313017081994087noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8107652553845392650.post-46299548360741718872022-05-20T16:53:00.002-07:002022-05-20T17:11:17.670-07:00Review - You've Reached Sam [AUDIO]<blockquote><i><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbCPC-z23X97OeYNshVaJ9d-wuEQIQSTkZmTXrw6XtTXFYhIgD3AEhvUF5HiARV_rt-tIQ35NytywGxR5p63aWGBqUYUuDVGgJgbZyUso-gDF7mt8y2mOSotHhSwSdSu7Pp3cw6YVXBXnrwuD-KkhqYgTfkmddHnFoMZf_Pm97NgRVJc_awRkrlH-J/s318/YouveReachedSam.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbCPC-z23X97OeYNshVaJ9d-wuEQIQSTkZmTXrw6XtTXFYhIgD3AEhvUF5HiARV_rt-tIQ35NytywGxR5p63aWGBqUYUuDVGgJgbZyUso-gDF7mt8y2mOSotHhSwSdSu7Pp3cw6YVXBXnrwuD-KkhqYgTfkmddHnFoMZf_Pm97NgRVJc_awRkrlH-J/s1600/YouveReachedSam.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>You've Reached Sam</b></i><br />
by Dustin Thao<br />
Date: 2021<br />
Publisher: Macmillan Young Listeners<br />
Reading level: YA<br />
Book type: prose novel<br />
Length: 9 hours 42 minutes<br />
Format: audio book [unabridged]<br />
Source: library<br />
<br />
<b>Dustin Thao's <i>You've Reached Sam</i> is a heartfelt audiobook about love and loss and what it means to say goodbye.</b>
<br /><br />
How do you move forward when everything you love is on the line?
<br /><br />
Seventeen-year-old Julie has her future all planned out—move out of her small town with her boyfriend Sam, attend college in the city, spend a summer in Japan.
<br /><br />
But then Sam dies. And everything changes.
<br /><br />
Heartbroken, Julie skips his funeral, throws out his things, and tries everything to forget him and the tragic way he died. But a message Sam left behind in her yearbook forces back memories. Desperate to hear his voice one more time, Julie calls Sam’s cellphone just to listen to his voicemail.
<br /><br />
And Sam picks up the phone.
<br /><br />
In a miraculous turn of events, Julie’s been given a second chance at goodbye. The connection is temporary. But hearing Sam’s voice makes her fall for him all over again, and with each call it becomes harder to let him go. However, keeping her otherworldly calls with Sam a secret isn’t easy, especially when Julie witnesses the suffering Sam’s family is going through. Unable to stand by the sidelines and watch their shared loved ones in pain, Julie is torn between spilling the truth about her calls with Sam and risking their connection and losing him forever.<br />
<br />
<i>(synopsis from <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/59788090-you-ve-reached-sam">Goodreads</a>)</i></blockquote>
<br /><div>I thought the premise of this one sounded so cool. A grieving girl who suddenly has the chance to reconnect with her dead boyfriend through a magic cellphone? Sign me up!</div><div><br /></div><div>I'd read some not-so-stellar reviews of this one, but I thought I'd give it a try, anyway. The library had the audiobook, so I gave it a go.</div><div><br /></div><div>Big mistake.</div><div><br /></div><div>It's probably just one of those books that works better in print. Because the timeline skips around <i>a lot</i>, it's kind of hard to follow. I can't see scene breaks when I'm listening, so sometimes I was confused when Julie would suddenly be with Sam again. A lot of the confusion could've been avoided had the author used the past tense for flashbacks. But the majority of the book is written in the present tense, even when Julie is remembering things that happened in the past.</div><div><br /></div><div>Speaking of those memories, I'm not a fan. They're almost like a fever dream, with one recollection dissolving into the next, and everything seems disjointed. These sections could've really helped flesh out the story, or made me understand the characters a little better. Sadly, much of the book seems like padding, and the various characters are unlikeable, underdeveloped, stereotypical, unpleasant, or just plain inconsistent. I don't even particularly like Sam, especially after he died; all those rules with their connection that are never explained almost seemed like manipulation.</div><div><br /></div><div>When we find out how Sam died, I thought there would be more to it than that, especially since Julie spends much of the book in a "woe is me, it's all my fault" mode. In fact, a lot of people blame Julie for Sam's death, and the reasons why make absolutely no sense to me. The perpetual blame game comes across more like a plot device than anything else, and I was disappointed that there was no earth-shattering twist that explained what really went on that night and who was really to blame.</div><div><br /></div><div>I'm not sure if I should even mention this next part, because I'll probably get flack for it, but I feel like it needs to be mentioned. This book is kind of racist. I'm already uncomfortable by the fact that a Vietnamese-American man decided to write the book from the point of view of a Caucasian girl... but not because authors need to stay in their own lanes. What irked me is that this choice seemed to be made as a subtle way to make a statement about race. Julie, a white girl, doesn't really have a cultural background; on the other hand, the book tries to glorify Asian culture (while simultaneously presenting it as a bit of a stereotypical monolith, which was a bit odd). Everything Asian is good (the people are model-beautiful, they bring pretty lunches to school, they're so inclusive they'll let white people into the Asian club, they're so in touch with their heritage, etc.), while a number of the white kids in the book are portrayed as one-dimensional bigots.</div><div><br /></div><div>Anyway, even without that stuff, I'm not sure if I would feel much more favourably toward this book. It was kind of boring, in the end, and I never got the answers—or the characters—I wanted.</div><div><br /></div><div>Also, sending flaming lanterns out into the wilderness in a state that regularly has wildfires is extremely irresponsible. And Julie wouldn't be walking under cherry blossoms during her first week of school. I'm surprised an editor didn't have something to say about these things...</div><div>
<br />
Plot: 2/5<br />
Characters: 2/5<br />
Pace: 2/5<br />
Performance: 3/5<br />
Originality: 3/5<br />
Enjoyment: 2/5 <br />
<br />
Overall: 2.33 out of 5<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM2Wh2zzgchPwLSJbFu1YII0pi_ExXd5JI0Cf3zIhd8HP1EpMai8q3GlrOhyphenhyphenHRt8TSECF5gQvUIKfO34RQwSdUlAqNItTCw0SfvlU9jtT_JH6BVhyphenhyphenTjsL872vKXYAx-Ueo6zuLEzXP2WE/s1600/2andahalfbugs.png" /></div>La Coccinellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03118313017081994087noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8107652553845392650.post-80756375340701519572022-05-12T16:27:00.000-07:002022-05-12T16:27:38.330-07:00Review - Unchosen [AUDIO]<blockquote><i><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhac-WtZXDWAs9ISoUXkGrXZpTe-JLElqccE9ZoyjsnhHTeTmjYfK_eBDJLFsze8VFM_8EyVfhHSbDr-k2b-NHi3u5eHYrji5EEFiuc0nIYlqV4VWCNHjOMicc-zklftF05IyIfktRXw6PzKaWouu5ckfdbz1e7sF6cxOxZhV-mJpUhJjxbcITuDmk/s500/Unchosen.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhac-WtZXDWAs9ISoUXkGrXZpTe-JLElqccE9ZoyjsnhHTeTmjYfK_eBDJLFsze8VFM_8EyVfhHSbDr-k2b-NHi3u5eHYrji5EEFiuc0nIYlqV4VWCNHjOMicc-zklftF05IyIfktRXw6PzKaWouu5ckfdbz1e7sF6cxOxZhV-mJpUhJjxbcITuDmk/s320/Unchosen.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Unchosen</b></i><br />
by Katharyn Blair<br />
Date: 2021<br />
Publisher: HarperAudio<br />
Reading level: YA<br />
Book type: prose novel<br />
Length: 10 hours 3 minutes<br />
Format: audio book [unabridged]<br />
Source: library<br />
<br />
For Charlotte Holloway, the world ended twice.
<br /><br />
The first was when her childhood crush, Dean, fell in love—with her older sister.
<br /><br />
The second was when the Crimson, a curse spread through eye contact, turned the majority of humanity into flesh-eating monsters.
<br /><br />
Neither end of the world changed Charlotte. She’s still in the shadows of her siblings. Her popular older sister, Harlow, now commands forces of survivors. And her talented younger sister, Vanessa, is the Chosen One—who, legend has it, can end the curse.
<br /><br />
When their settlement is raided by those seeking the Chosen One, Charlotte makes a reckless decision to save Vanessa: she takes her place as prisoner.
<br /><br />
The word spreads across the seven seas—the Chosen One has been found.
<br /><br />
But when Dean’s life is threatened and a resistance looms on the horizon, the lie keeping Charlotte alive begins to unravel. She’ll have to break free, forge new bonds, and choose her own destiny if she has any hope of saving her sisters, her love, and maybe even the world.
<br /><br />
Because sometimes the end is just a new beginning.<br />
<br />
<i>(synopsis from <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61050475-unchosen">Goodreads</a>)</i></blockquote>
<br />I was looking through my book blog and realized I hadn't listened to an audiobook in over a decade. What?! Yeah, I know. But, to be fair, audiobooks and I don't always get along. Without visual input of some sort, my mind tends to wander. (Either that, or I fall asleep.) But I've been having trouble lately with starting books and then not finishing them, so I wondered if "reading" an audiobook might work better for me right now.<div><br /></div><div>I haven't tried an audiobook in ages, and I also haven't read a young adult novel in a while. I think I might be getting too old for them. Or maybe I was just too old for this one. When the world has gone to hell and zombies are nipping at your heels, it seems a little ridiculous to start waxing poetic about some guy's shoulders. But... here we are.</div><div><br /></div><div>I did really like the premise of this one, though. It's basically a post-apocalyptic zombie book, but the zombie thing is really unique. It's based on a curse rather than the usual virus, and it's spread through eye contact. This leads to some interesting work-arounds like the characters having to use mirrors to look at things, lest they get zombified.</div><div><br /></div><div>Our main character is Charlotte, who's the inconsequential middle sister of three. Her older sister is some badass warrior, and her younger sister is literally the Chosen One who's supposed to save them all. On top of that, Charlotte is in love with her older sister's boyfriend, so things aren't running too smoothly in the family unit.</div><div><br /></div><div>Once the story started to pick up a bit, and some villains were thrown into the mix, I found myself getting a little lost. Maybe it was because of the audio format, or maybe the book was actually just confusing. The pacing seemed uneven in spots, especially toward the end (which was a little lacklustre after all that buildup). I wasn't that impressed with the villains, either; they were your standard moustache-twirlers who enjoyed being evil just for the sake of it.</div><div><br /></div><div>This probably wasn't the best book to ease me back into the world of audio. There was an awful lot of repetition, which was painfully obvious in audio format. (What I mean is that certain words and phrases were repeated way too close together, and characters' names were used too often when "he" or "she" would've sufficed.) I also wasn't a fan of this particular narrator, who would lower her voice for the male characters (which sounded silly) and harshen her voice for some of the female characters (making the villains, especially, sound more vapid than menacing). I do realize there's not much a single narrator can do with a book to differentiate the characters other than try to put on different voices. Still, I felt like the somewhat weird character voices were distracting and drew me out of the story at times.</div><div><br /></div><div>Overall, I give the premise top marks for originality. The execution is a little lacking, though. Still, it will probably appeal to young adult readers who are looking for an interesting post-apocalyptic romp with a touch of romance.<br />
<br />
Plot: 3/5<br />
Characters: 3/5<br />
Pace: 4/5<br />
Performance: 4/5<br />
Originality: 4/5<br />
Enjoyment: 3/5 <br />
<br />
Overall: 3.33 out of 5<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHecxtBwm-HQ63s2V8c0YOV7cmdl71tS2UhZf6RTbGNkBJEASMfp_jkbhX0Aa5mFSgLvk7TyVGR5x_LVALNKtuoD79NG3Fid5zVNP7ZF8mtfhv0AHvFU4E5i9qkKoq8DS3ful0GkZBZc8/s1600/3andahalfbugs.png" /></div>La Coccinellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03118313017081994087noreply@blogger.com0