Search
Search results
Merissa (11805 KP) rated The Darkest Road (The Fionavar Tapestry #3) in Books
Dec 17, 2018
The third and longest book in the Fionavar Tapestry Trilogy will leave you feeling emotionally exhausted by the time you finish it.
As the final book it obviously has to wrap up the whole story, including any new threads that have been introduced. GGK does this amazingly well and it will move you to tears (again).
One of the main characters and storylines of this book is Darien, the andain son of Jennifer and Rakoth and trust me when I say no punches are pulled with this. Although he ages quicker than normal children, he is still a child at heart and has the hardest decision of them all to make as he is the one that walks The Darkest Road. I won't put anything else as I don't want to spoil it for any that haven't read this book.
I have thoroughly enjoyed the books of The Fionavar Tapestry and have read them all over and over. A Tapestry is the correct term for these books and they are all interwoven together, with some bright threads and some dark, but ultimately all part of the bigger picture.
As the final book it obviously has to wrap up the whole story, including any new threads that have been introduced. GGK does this amazingly well and it will move you to tears (again).
One of the main characters and storylines of this book is Darien, the andain son of Jennifer and Rakoth and trust me when I say no punches are pulled with this. Although he ages quicker than normal children, he is still a child at heart and has the hardest decision of them all to make as he is the one that walks The Darkest Road. I won't put anything else as I don't want to spoil it for any that haven't read this book.
I have thoroughly enjoyed the books of The Fionavar Tapestry and have read them all over and over. A Tapestry is the correct term for these books and they are all interwoven together, with some bright threads and some dark, but ultimately all part of the bigger picture.
Nicole Hadley (380 KP) rated Look for Ladybug in Plant City in Books
Jun 14, 2018
Look for Ladybug in Plant City by Katherina Manolessou is a beautiful book. The colors are vibrant and there’s so much to look at. My students enjoyed this book and wanted more of it. A lot of time could be spend going through a book like this since the detail details will most likely inspire children to ask questions about the content on the pages. Additionally, the little text segments on each page encourage to look for certain things, for example a picture of a pineapple or a taxi full of owls.
Daisy and Ladybug are really close, but Ladybug goes missing and this book is a story of finding Ladybug. Every two pages is a new part of the city, and in every part you have to find the Ladybug. However this can be challenging, as there are tons of things that looks similar to him or that are colored the same way.
The pages are delight to look at, you can see all sorts of things, and I just adore that the creatures are all colored in an abundance of colours. From pink to green, anything is possible in this story. The illustrator definitely did a wonderful job on the illustrations.
I received an ARC from Quarto Publishing Group and Frances Lincoln Childrens via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I give this book 3.5/5 stars based on the fact the book has an abrupt ending.
Daisy and Ladybug are really close, but Ladybug goes missing and this book is a story of finding Ladybug. Every two pages is a new part of the city, and in every part you have to find the Ladybug. However this can be challenging, as there are tons of things that looks similar to him or that are colored the same way.
The pages are delight to look at, you can see all sorts of things, and I just adore that the creatures are all colored in an abundance of colours. From pink to green, anything is possible in this story. The illustrator definitely did a wonderful job on the illustrations.
I received an ARC from Quarto Publishing Group and Frances Lincoln Childrens via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I give this book 3.5/5 stars based on the fact the book has an abrupt ending.
Lindsay (1706 KP) rated SnoozaPalooza in Books
Jan 6, 2021
Looking for a book that will help your child or children to count. Snoozapalooza cutely does this. It will teach your children how to count in a fun and enjoyable way. Snoozapalooza is a wonderful book and it's another one to add to your bookshelves.
I enjoyed the way the animals are different which seems to come rolling in and falling asleep. It shows you the kind of animals that may hibernate during this season. The rhyming is cute. I enjoyed the way the rhyming went and how they all fast sleep.
The pictures are done well. They are colorful and enjoyable to look at. Your child will look at the picture and just like that. The counting or the number is big enough to read. The way the book adds another animal to the pile each time is wonderful. Your child or children will be delighted in trying to see where the animals are when a new one is added to the pile.
Children will want to reread this book more than once and will be delighted to learn at the same time. It is easy to read or at least. Parents can help their children read this book. Children could read the number that is being shown. Parents could make this fun game for your child or children to count the animals in the pile. What a fun way to spend your time with your child. This book is good for bedtime reading as well.
I enjoyed the way the animals are different which seems to come rolling in and falling asleep. It shows you the kind of animals that may hibernate during this season. The rhyming is cute. I enjoyed the way the rhyming went and how they all fast sleep.
The pictures are done well. They are colorful and enjoyable to look at. Your child will look at the picture and just like that. The counting or the number is big enough to read. The way the book adds another animal to the pile each time is wonderful. Your child or children will be delighted in trying to see where the animals are when a new one is added to the pile.
Children will want to reread this book more than once and will be delighted to learn at the same time. It is easy to read or at least. Parents can help their children read this book. Children could read the number that is being shown. Parents could make this fun game for your child or children to count the animals in the pile. What a fun way to spend your time with your child. This book is good for bedtime reading as well.
Merissa (11805 KP) rated Traitor's Moon (Gladstone Shifters #2) in Books
Jun 8, 2021
TRAITOR'S MOON is the second book in the Gladstone Shifters series and it does follow on from book one so I definitely recommend you read that book just to get the full picture.
Ben and Evan are still trying to make their Pack a safe home but Wilburn still has other plans. Jack and William are 'on tour' trying to bring the reality of True Elders to other packs.
There is so much intrigue in this book, making it fast-paced and full of action without it being rushed. As a reader, you daren't blink in case you miss anything. And yet, there is still time for romance, for love, for hope. And not just for MM couples either. Personally, I think this is one of the best parts of these books - instead of just one romance, you get a couple or more!
The world-building is excellent and you also get the political structure and problems too. Although there are a host of characters, each one is fully fleshed out, making every single one of them completely believable.
This is a fantastic addition to the series and I look forward to carrying on with their stories. I'm keeping my fingers crossed for Jonah!
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Ben and Evan are still trying to make their Pack a safe home but Wilburn still has other plans. Jack and William are 'on tour' trying to bring the reality of True Elders to other packs.
There is so much intrigue in this book, making it fast-paced and full of action without it being rushed. As a reader, you daren't blink in case you miss anything. And yet, there is still time for romance, for love, for hope. And not just for MM couples either. Personally, I think this is one of the best parts of these books - instead of just one romance, you get a couple or more!
The world-building is excellent and you also get the political structure and problems too. Although there are a host of characters, each one is fully fleshed out, making every single one of them completely believable.
This is a fantastic addition to the series and I look forward to carrying on with their stories. I'm keeping my fingers crossed for Jonah!
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
TravelersWife4Life (31 KP) rated The Plans We Made in Books
Feb 23, 2021
The Plans We Made; I pick up this book primarily for the name not going to lie. I had never read a book by either of the authors and quite honestly, I tend to stay away from books dealing with cancer as it hits a little to close to home. But I felt like I was supposed to read this book.
The Plans We Made starts out with two separate stories that eventually merge to form a compelling story of honesty, love, and second chances. I think the authors really tried to convey the title of the book throughout the story, always coming back to the plans we make are not always what God knows is supposed to happen in our lives. The plot was slow at first as you are introduced to both stories, which I liked as I got to understand the stories individually without getting names confused. By the end of the story, I was wishing the pace would slow down as I did not want the story to end!
The characters in this book were a wide range of personalities that all seemed to fit together like a puzzle. The more you add the better picture you have. I thought both Caroline and Linda, the main characters, were well laid out and very engaging and realistic with their actions and words.
From this story’s delicate yet real handling of the circumstances surrounding cancer to the struggle of doing what is right even at the cost of your job. I sincerely enjoyed this book and give it 4 out of 5 stars, as I did have a little trouble with Caroline’s actions at almost the end of the book as they didn’t seem to line up with her personality from the rest of the book. I definitely recommend reading this book if you like Karen Kingsbury, T.I. Lowe, or Denise Hunter.
*I volunteered to read this book in return for my honest feedback. The thoughts and opinions expressed within are my own.<br/>
The Plans We Made starts out with two separate stories that eventually merge to form a compelling story of honesty, love, and second chances. I think the authors really tried to convey the title of the book throughout the story, always coming back to the plans we make are not always what God knows is supposed to happen in our lives. The plot was slow at first as you are introduced to both stories, which I liked as I got to understand the stories individually without getting names confused. By the end of the story, I was wishing the pace would slow down as I did not want the story to end!
The characters in this book were a wide range of personalities that all seemed to fit together like a puzzle. The more you add the better picture you have. I thought both Caroline and Linda, the main characters, were well laid out and very engaging and realistic with their actions and words.
From this story’s delicate yet real handling of the circumstances surrounding cancer to the struggle of doing what is right even at the cost of your job. I sincerely enjoyed this book and give it 4 out of 5 stars, as I did have a little trouble with Caroline’s actions at almost the end of the book as they didn’t seem to line up with her personality from the rest of the book. I definitely recommend reading this book if you like Karen Kingsbury, T.I. Lowe, or Denise Hunter.
*I volunteered to read this book in return for my honest feedback. The thoughts and opinions expressed within are my own.<br/>
TravelersWife4Life (31 KP) rated Big Wishes for Little Feat in Books
Feb 24, 2021
I love children’s picture books, but I loved them with substance, <i>Big Wishes for Little Feet </i> gives me that and so much more!
Cheryl Olsten brought to life a vivid story of finding happiness right where you are planted, of never giving up even when things do not go your way, and that there is joy in the midst of sadness. I LOVED Lafitte and his story of perseverance. The narration was done beautifully (emphasized by the fantastic illustrations) and I enjoyed getting to watch him grow up. I also liked Ella’s story and how they intertwined together. I think there are a lot of kids who can relate to Ella and her family situation. I especially liked how Cheryl Olsten explained the phonics to say Ella’s nickname from her father <i>Brilliant étoile</i>. It was a fun interactive part of the story; plus, it reinforces dual language learning.
<b>“Little Feet, thought the horse. That is who I am—a horse of great courage, strength, and skill.”</b>
Paolo D’Altan’s work in this book is phenomenal. He truly conveyed the wonder and curiosity displayed by Ella and Lafitte and told their story in a colorful and eye-catching way. I want some of the pictures to hang in my home! As I look back over the story, I am again amazed by all the detailed work that went into this book and I am looking forward to showing my niece this book over Christmas to see which picture is her favorite. Well done Paolo D’Altan!
A definite 5 out of 5 stars for me! Some great themes combined with a good flowing storyline and some great imaginative art.
*I volunteered to read this book in return for my honest feedback. The thoughts and opinions expressed within are my own.
Cheryl Olsten brought to life a vivid story of finding happiness right where you are planted, of never giving up even when things do not go your way, and that there is joy in the midst of sadness. I LOVED Lafitte and his story of perseverance. The narration was done beautifully (emphasized by the fantastic illustrations) and I enjoyed getting to watch him grow up. I also liked Ella’s story and how they intertwined together. I think there are a lot of kids who can relate to Ella and her family situation. I especially liked how Cheryl Olsten explained the phonics to say Ella’s nickname from her father <i>Brilliant étoile</i>. It was a fun interactive part of the story; plus, it reinforces dual language learning.
<b>“Little Feet, thought the horse. That is who I am—a horse of great courage, strength, and skill.”</b>
Paolo D’Altan’s work in this book is phenomenal. He truly conveyed the wonder and curiosity displayed by Ella and Lafitte and told their story in a colorful and eye-catching way. I want some of the pictures to hang in my home! As I look back over the story, I am again amazed by all the detailed work that went into this book and I am looking forward to showing my niece this book over Christmas to see which picture is her favorite. Well done Paolo D’Altan!
A definite 5 out of 5 stars for me! Some great themes combined with a good flowing storyline and some great imaginative art.
*I volunteered to read this book in return for my honest feedback. The thoughts and opinions expressed within are my own.
Debbiereadsbook (1110 KP) rated Smith's Corner: Alora & Ash (The Heartwood Series #3) in Books
Oct 16, 2021
Didn't quite love this one!
Independent reviewer for Archaeolibrarian, I was gifted my copy of this book.
This is book 3 in the Heartwood series and while not totally necessary, it might help you get a better picture of this family group, and all the supporting characters.
Ash went to prison, and he shut Alora off completely just when she needed him the most. You get a picture as to WHY he does that, though. When their paths cross again, Alora runs away from Ash. It's not long til Ash discovers the secret Alora has been keeping from him, though.
Ash has to learn the hard way about letting people help him. Had he done so before, he might not have such a hard time now. But one thing holds true from then to now: he LOVES Alora, so darn much!
You understand why Alora is reluctant to let Ash in, he hurt her before, but when she does let him in, its wonderful!
There is some overlap with book 2, Layla and Levi and it's kinda fun watching those two from the other side, so to speak!
This is a great addition to the series but it doesn't quite push my buttons like Dallas and Delilah or Levi and Layla do, I'm afraid. Oh it's good, yes, but I didn't quite love it.
Fox and Faith are next. Given that Fox hasn't SAID a word in three books, that should be an interesting read!
3 good solid stars
same worded review will appear elsewhere
This is book 3 in the Heartwood series and while not totally necessary, it might help you get a better picture of this family group, and all the supporting characters.
Ash went to prison, and he shut Alora off completely just when she needed him the most. You get a picture as to WHY he does that, though. When their paths cross again, Alora runs away from Ash. It's not long til Ash discovers the secret Alora has been keeping from him, though.
Ash has to learn the hard way about letting people help him. Had he done so before, he might not have such a hard time now. But one thing holds true from then to now: he LOVES Alora, so darn much!
You understand why Alora is reluctant to let Ash in, he hurt her before, but when she does let him in, its wonderful!
There is some overlap with book 2, Layla and Levi and it's kinda fun watching those two from the other side, so to speak!
This is a great addition to the series but it doesn't quite push my buttons like Dallas and Delilah or Levi and Layla do, I'm afraid. Oh it's good, yes, but I didn't quite love it.
Fox and Faith are next. Given that Fox hasn't SAID a word in three books, that should be an interesting read!
3 good solid stars
same worded review will appear elsewhere
Night Reader Reviews (683 KP) rated I'm Lost I'm Lost in Books
Jan 9, 2020
Im Lost Im Lost by Ruth Passmore is a little bit on the misleading side. The cover of this book depicts animals and a train. Potential readers should be aware that although the front cover depicts a train the book has absolutely nothing to do with them (a big disappointment to my two-year-old who loves trains). I know you should never judge a book by its cover by a childrens book may not be the best idea to practice that idea. At the same time, this is a counting book and aside from the numbers on the train cars, the front cover does not hint at this at all, although the back of the book dose.
Baby animals are lost and trying to find their way home in this short counting book. Readers start with a classical animal issue, a cat stuck in a tree. With the aid of very simple illustrations, readers are introduced to nine other animal species, ending with ten baby kangaroos.
What I liked best it that the idea behind this book is great. Counting is a fundamental skill that all children must learn and this book does so in a fun way. Children frequently have a fascination with animals and this book mixes animals with learning in a way children would not notice. The repetitive pattern is also nice for children. What I did not like is that some of the choices in animal types are questionable as they could be difficult for young children to read such as tortoises, hedgehogs, and kangaroos. Also on six out of ten pages, a specific number of animals is given but technically it is wrong. For example page, one says there is one cat stuck and a friend (witch according to the picture is also a cat) helps it, the same issue arises on multiple pages (page three has four fish on it not just the three that are lost). This is very confusing to young children.
Toddlers and their parents are the target readers for this book. Parents will enjoy reading this counting book to their young children. Young readers will enjoy the repetitive pattern of the story. The names of some animals may prove difficult to some young readers and they may need help if reading it on their own. I give this book a 1 out of 2 rating. Although a cute book, I would not necessarily recommend it as an educational book. While there is nothing wrong with the text, the illustrations could be confusing when it comes to counting.
https://nightreaderreviews.blogspot.com
Baby animals are lost and trying to find their way home in this short counting book. Readers start with a classical animal issue, a cat stuck in a tree. With the aid of very simple illustrations, readers are introduced to nine other animal species, ending with ten baby kangaroos.
What I liked best it that the idea behind this book is great. Counting is a fundamental skill that all children must learn and this book does so in a fun way. Children frequently have a fascination with animals and this book mixes animals with learning in a way children would not notice. The repetitive pattern is also nice for children. What I did not like is that some of the choices in animal types are questionable as they could be difficult for young children to read such as tortoises, hedgehogs, and kangaroos. Also on six out of ten pages, a specific number of animals is given but technically it is wrong. For example page, one says there is one cat stuck and a friend (witch according to the picture is also a cat) helps it, the same issue arises on multiple pages (page three has four fish on it not just the three that are lost). This is very confusing to young children.
Toddlers and their parents are the target readers for this book. Parents will enjoy reading this counting book to their young children. Young readers will enjoy the repetitive pattern of the story. The names of some animals may prove difficult to some young readers and they may need help if reading it on their own. I give this book a 1 out of 2 rating. Although a cute book, I would not necessarily recommend it as an educational book. While there is nothing wrong with the text, the illustrations could be confusing when it comes to counting.
https://nightreaderreviews.blogspot.com
Lindsay (1706 KP) rated Mickey on the Move: Farming in Books
Jul 14, 2022
Mickey on the Move Farming is about a little boy who is severely deaf in both his ears. This adventure is the second that comes after Mickey on the Move. This book discusses cochlear implants and what might happen if they get wet. If you want to learn about Mickey and his cochlear implants, read Mickey on the Move.
As Mickey on the Move: Farming continues to talk about the cochlear implant and what it is like for Mickey to enjoy the great outdoors. Mickey enjoys raising his chickens, gardening, and helping with his dad's vineyard. However, he enjoys the outdoors and other fun kids' things like swimming. There is one worry while Mickey enjoys the outdoors and some summer fun and stands hampered by weather with his current cochlear implant.
In this book Mickey on the Move Farming, we are introduced to a new accessory to the aqua cochlear implant (which I believe is an addition or add-on). We see Mickey with these wants he been when he offers this. What summer fun or outdoor fun and nature is he going to enjoy?
What are cochlear implants? - A cochlear implant is a small electronic device that electrically stimulates the cochlear nerve (nerve for hearing). The implant has external and internal parts. The outer part sits behind the ear. It picks up sounds with a microphone. It then processes the sound and transmits it to the internal part of the implant.
What will he do with his newfound freedom with some water-safe cochlear implant? What adventures will he do and go on? This picture book shows Mickey enjoying some of the great outdoors with his new, improved aqua cochlear implant? The picture book is done well. It is an excellent book for children to learn about others that may be different. Also, remember that children that are deaf or have severe hearing loss want to be like any other child or children.
As Mickey on the Move: Farming continues to talk about the cochlear implant and what it is like for Mickey to enjoy the great outdoors. Mickey enjoys raising his chickens, gardening, and helping with his dad's vineyard. However, he enjoys the outdoors and other fun kids' things like swimming. There is one worry while Mickey enjoys the outdoors and some summer fun and stands hampered by weather with his current cochlear implant.
In this book Mickey on the Move Farming, we are introduced to a new accessory to the aqua cochlear implant (which I believe is an addition or add-on). We see Mickey with these wants he been when he offers this. What summer fun or outdoor fun and nature is he going to enjoy?
What are cochlear implants? - A cochlear implant is a small electronic device that electrically stimulates the cochlear nerve (nerve for hearing). The implant has external and internal parts. The outer part sits behind the ear. It picks up sounds with a microphone. It then processes the sound and transmits it to the internal part of the implant.
What will he do with his newfound freedom with some water-safe cochlear implant? What adventures will he do and go on? This picture book shows Mickey enjoying some of the great outdoors with his new, improved aqua cochlear implant? The picture book is done well. It is an excellent book for children to learn about others that may be different. Also, remember that children that are deaf or have severe hearing loss want to be like any other child or children.
Debbiereadsbook (1110 KP) rated Running From Darkness (Dark River Stone Collective #3) in Books
Apr 23, 2023
That he wanted in Conall's bed was secondary to making sure Calli was safe.
Independent reviewer for Archaeolibrarian, I was gifted my copy of this book.
This is book 3 in the Dark River Stone Collective series. While not strictly necessary, I would recommend you read at least book one, The Light Beneath The Dark. It will give you a better picture of Linc and Mason, as it's their story and they play a large part here. Some references are made to that book, so it might help. BUT book 2, When Darkness Turns To Light, was a far more gripping read. So, you know, just read 'em both!
Conall and Kyle are perfect for each other, right from the start. I loved that Kyle knew he wanted Conall, but he wanted to HELP Conall and his sister Calli first and foremost. That he wanted in Conall's bed was secondary to making sure Calli was safe.
Because Conall finds her being attacked by their step-father and reacts with violence. Which I totally get and fully approve of, given as Calli is 14. Running to the Dark Angels was the quickest way to get her safe.
I loved that Mason is very . . loose . . with his words, and helps Conall keep Calli safe. Calli will be a force of nature, once she has some time to come to terms with what's happened, she really will. She shows great courage here, and I loved that River kinda attached herself to Calli.
This book doesn't quite bite the way book 2 does, but it bites in a very different way. I still enjoyed it as much as book 1 though, and it is a welcome addition to this series.
Who is next?? I dunno, I don't really care, but I will be reading it!
4 good solid stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
This is book 3 in the Dark River Stone Collective series. While not strictly necessary, I would recommend you read at least book one, The Light Beneath The Dark. It will give you a better picture of Linc and Mason, as it's their story and they play a large part here. Some references are made to that book, so it might help. BUT book 2, When Darkness Turns To Light, was a far more gripping read. So, you know, just read 'em both!
Conall and Kyle are perfect for each other, right from the start. I loved that Kyle knew he wanted Conall, but he wanted to HELP Conall and his sister Calli first and foremost. That he wanted in Conall's bed was secondary to making sure Calli was safe.
Because Conall finds her being attacked by their step-father and reacts with violence. Which I totally get and fully approve of, given as Calli is 14. Running to the Dark Angels was the quickest way to get her safe.
I loved that Mason is very . . loose . . with his words, and helps Conall keep Calli safe. Calli will be a force of nature, once she has some time to come to terms with what's happened, she really will. She shows great courage here, and I loved that River kinda attached herself to Calli.
This book doesn't quite bite the way book 2 does, but it bites in a very different way. I still enjoyed it as much as book 1 though, and it is a welcome addition to this series.
Who is next?? I dunno, I don't really care, but I will be reading it!
4 good solid stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere