REVIEW: Untethered by Angela Jackson-Brown

                                                 

Untethered is author Angela Jackson-Brown's sixth novel and is a moving exploration of love, duty, and self-discovery in the late 1960's. Nineteen sixty-seven is a very pivotal year in  Alabama and finds Katia Daniels, a devoted caretaker at a group home for boys. Katia shoulders immense responsibilities while grappling with loss, imposed burdens, and yearning for a life of her own. Jackson-Brown portrays Katia's journey as she reconnects with an old friend, and begins to consider for the first time what her own wants and needs are, as a complex Black woman are in a world that demands too much from her. Jackson-Brown presents a deeply moving tale of faith, love, and the enduring strength of the human spirit. 

Thank you to #NetGalley, the author Angela Jackson-Brown and HarperCollins Focus | Harper Muse for an audio copy of #Untethered in exchange for my honest opinion. Untethered comes out this tomorrow December 3, 2024. 

REVIEW: Kingdom of No Tomorrow by Fabienne Josaphat

 

The Black Panther movement and its struggle against injustice in the late 1960s serve as the backdrop for Fabienne Josaphat's novel Kingdom of No Tomorrow.  We explore this world through Nettie Boileau, a young woman navigating love, activism, service and self-discovery, Josaphat paints a vivid and nuanced portrait of the movement's triumphs and complexities. We get a glimpse into her world as a worker at a free health clinic run by the Panthers and her love for Melvin one of the Panther's captains. As Nettie learns more about the Panther's activism she is confronted by and witnesses the rising tensions that encompass social justice and gender equality, exposing the true demands of the  struggle that define this period in American history.

Thank you to #NetGalley, the author Fabienne Josaphat and Hachette Audio | Algonquin Books for an audio copy of #KingdomofNoTomorrow in exchange for my honest opinion. Kingdom of No Tomorrow comes out this Tuesday December 3, 2024. 

REVIEW: Don't Cause Trouble by Arree Chung

                                                                 

Don’t Cause Trouble follows Ming, a kid just trying to fit in at a new school and make friends. As usually there are a few bumps along the way. Ming's life isn't made easy as his well-meaning mother insists on giving him the same stereotypical bowl haircut every year, and his wardrobe comes straight from the discount thrift shop. And to add insult to injury Ming ends up placed in an ESL class, despite only knowing and speaking English. His parents ever optimistic try to give him advice and drill home that getting good grades and not causing trouble is the only way to have get into a good college and have a fulfilling life. However this is harder to put into practice. Ming is occasionally daydreams of being 'other' and expresses himself through his sketches. But with his two new friends who are also misfits in their own way, Ming decides it's time to bend the rules a bit and find his own way. Together, they take on bullies and take advantage of every opportunity to make money. Don’t Cause Trouble is a funny, warmhearted graphic novel, that effortlessly tackles hard topics such as immigration and bullying and shows readers that it takes courage to be yourself and find worthwhile friends. Perfect for anyone who’s ever felt a little out of place, Ming’s journey is as relatable as it is entertaining.

Thank you to #NetGalley, the author Arree Chung and Macmillan Children's Publishing Group | Henry Holt and Co. BYR Paperbacks for an digital copy of #DontCauseTrouble in exchange for my honest opinion. Don’t Cause Trouble comes out April 22, 2025. 

REVIEW: The Day God Saw Me as Black by D. Danyelle Thomas

 

In The Day God Saw Me as Black: The Journey to Liberated Faith, D. Danyelle Thomas delivers a profound exploration of Black identity, spirituality, and the decolonization of faith. Through candid storytelling and a blend of cultural critique and personal reflections, Thomas invites readers to reimagine their spirituality beyond Eurocentric interpretations of Christianity. The book speaks to the healing and liberation found in reclaiming one’s faith from oppressive structures, celebrating Blackness as sacred and deserving. Thomas's writing is both intimate and empowering, making this work a compelling read for those interested in faith, cultural identity, and the resilience of the Black experience. Each chapter could be it's own standalone text as deserves it's own deep dive and exploration. There are so many gems within and between the lines. 

Thank you to #NetGalley, the author D. Danyelle Thomas and Row House Publishing for an audio copy of #TheDayGodSawMeasBlack in exchange for my honest opinion. The Day God Saw Me As Black comes out tomorrow, October 29, 2024.

REVIEW: Pineville Trace by Wes Blake

 

Frank Russet, is a former southern revival preacher and confidence man who escapes from a minimum-security prison in eastern Kentucky. With only a cat named Buffalo by his side and a desire to leave his past behind, Frank embarks on a journey to or on the fringes of society. Pineville Trace is a flash-fiction novella or a  novella-in-flash by Wes Blake follows Frank as he navigates a shadowy world, encounters remnants of his former life that forces  him to confront his deepest regrets and desires. The prose is not only haunting but introspective and atmospheric at the same time. It vividly captures Frank's struggle for survival and his quest for redemption in short snippets, inviting readers to explore the fine line between salvation and damnation.

Thank you to #NetGalley, the author Wes Blake and Mindbuck Media Audio for an audio copy of #PinevilleTrace in exchange for my honest opinion. This novella actually comes out tomorrow September 3, 2024, so be on the lookout!!

READING WRAPUP: August 2024

 

Top Row: Graphic Novels (all 3 🌟)
🌻 Blood on the Tracks vols. 14 & 15 - The saga continues with this strange mother and son relationship.
🌻 Saga vol. 11 - This saga, too, continues.

Favorite Read This Month (5 🌟)
🌻 Scam Goddess* - entertaining and hilarious. I've been a fan of Laci Mosely's podcast of the same name since pre-pandemic days. It was such a fun read!!

Reads I Really Enjoyed (4 🌟)
🌻 The Great Divide by Cristina Henriquez
🌻 On Black Sisters Street by Chika Unigwe
🌻 Becoming Nigerian by Elnathan John
🌻 Frying Plantain by Zalika Reid-Benta 
🌻 My Name is Barbra by Barbra Streisand

Reads That Were Okay (3 🌟)
🌻 They Dream in Gold* - a good story, but I was expecting a bit more.
🌻 Navigate Your Stars
🌻 Sex, Cult, Nun
🌻 Meridon - final installment in The Wildacre Trilogy 
🌻 August Blue

Reads That Were Just Bad (2 🌟)
🌻 Sure I'll Join Your Cult - how the author looks on the cover is how I felt reading this - gibberish.
🌻 The Very Final Last Girls

* An advance copy of the audiobook was provided by #NetGalley for an honest opinion. See previous posts for reviews. 

REVIEW: Scam Goddess by Laci Mosley

 

Life is a Scam, Adulthood is a Scam, Everything is a Scam!! I have been a huge fan of Laci Mosley's Scam Goddess podcast and now her first book. Scam Goddess is a witty and sharp collection of essays that dives into the world of scams, frauds, and cons with unbridled humor and insight. Based on her personal experiences and the world around her, especially Hollywood,  Mosley magnificently explores how the scamming mindset and situations has influenced her life. Through her unique lens, Mosley reveals that we’re all participants in a cruel game that has been rigged against us, but with the right attitude and scam up your sleeve, one can definitely flip the script to your advantage. This was a hilarious and Both entertaining read and at times thought-provoking. Mosley provides a very helpful list of ‘scam’ tips at the end. Scam Goddess is a celebration of resilience, survival, and the art of the hustle. Let the church say Amen!! 

Thank you to #NetGalley, the author Laci Mosley and Hachette Audio | Running Press Adult for a digital (audio) copy of the memoir #ScamGoddess in exchange for my honest opinion. Scam Goddess will be out September 10, 2024, so be on the lookout!!

REVIEW: They Dream in Gold by Mai Sennaar

 

They Dream in Gold is a captivating novel that weaves together human stories on multiple levels. Set against the backdrop of the 1968 New York jazz scene the book spans continents and decades and follows the passionate and tumultuous relationship and bond between Bonnie and Mansour. A bond, formed out of shared experiences of displacement and longing, is both a source of solace and inevitable heartache. It also draws on characters and its exploration of the African diaspora's quest for identity and belonging. Mansour's musical journey, infused with Senegalese rhythms and the spirit of revolution, also serves as a powerful metaphor for the migrant experience. When Mansour disappears it adds another level of mystery and urgency to the narrative, propelling Bonnie on a quest that is as much about finding herself as it is about finding him. They Dream in Gold is an intimate tale that is beautifully written and deeply moving.

Thank you to #NetGalley, the author Mai Sennaar and Dreamscape Select | SJP Lit for a digital copy of the novel #TheyDreaminGold in exchange for my honest opinion. 

REVIEW: Heretic by Catherine Nixey

Heretic is a provocative exploration of Jesus Christ not only as how he is known in the Christian world but as an historical figure. You will find this book challenges the status quo of what is known and believed about Christ the son of God. Catherine Nixey presents numerous concepts that will have you thinking and maybe second guessing what you have been taught in religious studies and in church. Nixey delves into the various interpretations and transformations of Jesus’s identity over centuries. This text was meticulously researched and written in engaging prose. It challenges the traditional narratives, offering readers and believers alike a fresh perspective on the central figure of the Christian religion/faith. Heretic is a fantastic, enlightening read that would be an ideal text for book clubs and anyone interested in history, theology, and cultural studies. I cannot wait for it to be published at the end of the year. I want both a physical and audio copy.
Thank you to #NetGalley, the author Catherine Nixey and Mariner Books for an advanced digital copy of #Heretic in exchange for my honest opinion.

REVIEW: City Bird by Vinet and Harrison

 

If you enjoy reading about birds or bird watching you will enjoy this charming exploration of urban birds. City Bird: Explore the Charming Metropolitan Melodies of Our Feathered Friends by Angela Harrison Vinet and Janis Hatten Harrison beautifully blends scientific insights with lyrical prose.  It captures the essence of how many birds adapt to and thrive in urban environments. This graphic novel or dare I say picture book is enriched with vivid descriptions and stunning illustrations, making it both an informative and aesthetically pleasing read. I think if the authors added a little bit of scientific background information such as scientific name, genus, range etc., it would have enhanced the experience and added to the reference guide aspect of the book. Through their engaging narrative, Vinet and Harrison inspire a deeper appreciation for these avian inhabitants of many bustling cities. This book is a must-read for urban bird enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Thank you to #NetGalley, the authors Angela Harrison Vinet and Janis Hatten Harrison – Quarto Publishing Group – becker & mayer for a digital copy of #CityBird in exchange for my honest opinion.

REVIEW: Vincent by Simon Elliott

 

As an avid fan of art history and historical figures in art. This biography of the iconic artist Vincent van Gogh in graphic novel format offers an intimate and captivating look into his life. Although, I found Elliott's artwork very simplistic and scrapbook like it beautifully complemented the narrative. It captured both the vibrant colors and emotional depth mimicking van Gogh's work and life. This graphic novel explores van Gogh's struggles with mental health, his tumultuous relationships, and his unyielding passion for art. The narrative was both informative and empathetic, making the artist’s journey accessible and engaging for all readers. Elliott created a compelling tribute to van Gogh’s genius and challenges, making it a must-read for art enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Thank you to #NetGalley, the author Simon Elliott and the Quarto Publishing Group – White Lion | Frances Lincoln for a digital copy of the graphic novel #VincentAGraphicBiography in exchange for my honest opinion.

REVIEW: Freedom Was In Sight by Kate Masur

 

Kate Masur’s “Freedom Was in Sight: A Graphic History of Reconstruction in the Washington, D.C., Region” is a remarkable history text in graphic novel format. It delves into key pivotal moments of the Civil War and Reconstruction era, a critical period in American history. Masur's engaging storytelling brings to life the struggles and triumphs of African Americans fighting for their freedom and rights. This was a  meticulously researched book and would be a great way to introduce a topic of historical significance to schools. I think presenting nonfiction works in a variety of formats appeals to a wider range of readers especially the younger generations. The artwork (Liz Clarke, illustrator) itself is both vivid and evocative, capturing the emotional intensity and the significance of the period. Through these powerful visuals and poignant narrative, this graphic novel provides a nuanced exploration of the complexities of freedom, resistance, and justice. It's a must-read for anyone interested in American history and the ongoing struggle for civil rights of black people in this country.

Thank you to #NetGalley, the author Kate Masur and the University of North Carolina Press - Ferris and Ferris Books for a digital copy of the graphic novel #FreedomWasinSight in exchange for my honest opinion.

REVIEW: Full Shift by Jennifer Dugan

 

The latest from activist and author Jennifer Dugan is a compelling and emotional graphic novel  that finds Tessa struggling to belong, accept herself and navigate teenage life. Unlike her friends Tessa is a werewolf and since the death of her father has felt like an outcast everywhere. At school she is grappling with unspoken feelings for her friend Maddie, and at home among her werewolf family trying to find her place. Werewolf hunters enter the scene with a ‘cure’ that allegedly turns werewolves human. This seems like the perfect escape. Tessa can only partially shift unlike the rest of her pack. But is this cure too good to be true, do the hunters have ‘good’ intentions or are the wolves in jeopardy? This is a story of Tessa's journey as she embraces her identity, it blends supernatural tension, a thrilling adventure and personal growth. The Shift is perfect for new and young adults. 

Thank you to #NetGalley, the author Jennifer Dugan and Penguin Group - Penguin Young Readers Group for a digital copy of #FullShift in exchange for my honest opinion.

REVIEW - Ali Cross: The Graphic Novel by James Patterson

 

Those familiar with James Patterson's Alex Cross are in for a treat with the best selling author's new series staring famed detective Alex Cross's son Ali. Ali Cross brings a whole new generation into Patterson's thriller and suspense world with this graphic novel. Ali navigates his own mystery as his tries to solve the case of his missing friend. We see his youthful determination boosted by skills inherited from his father. Although the plot is predictable Patterson's storytelling makes Ali's character relatable and inspiring for a younger audience, embodying the themes of friendship, bravery, loyalty, and perseverance.

The artwork by Phillip Tajalle is fantastic and vivid bringing to life the tension and excitement of Ali's journey as he uncovers and solves clues, adding to the fast-paced story making it a visually captivating read. Did Ali find his friend? Find out by picking up a copy of this graphic novel when it comes out. 

Thank you to #NetGalley, the author James Patterson and Little, Brown Books for Young Readers for a digital copy of #AliCrossTheGraphicNovel in exchange for my honest opinion.

REVIEW: Born to Create by Anne Jacoby

Anne Jacoby's "Born to Create: How Creativity Sparks Connection, Innovation, and Belonging in Our New World of Work" is a timely exploration of creativity's essential role in today's evolving work environment. It  delves into the transformative power of creativity in the workplace, arguing that it is not merely a desirable skill but a fundamental component for fostering connection, innovation, and a sense of belonging. The author notes that creativity is innate to all humans and, when harnessed effectively, can revolutionize the way we work, collaborate, and connect with others. The book covers a few themes such as creativity as a universal trait, fostering connections, driving innovation, creating belonging among a few others. The book also provides practical applications in the form of  numerous exercises, frameworks, and tools that one can implement immediately. “Born to Create” is a rich resource for anyone looking to make creativity a cornerstone of their professional life.

Thank you to #NetGalley, the author Anne Jacoby and  Greenleaf Audiobooks | Fast Company Press for a digital copy of #BorntoCreate in exchange for my honest opinion.

Review: You Must Be This Tall to Propose 1 by Fumi Mifuyu

A very cute manga about neighbors growing up together and a boy’s eternal pledge to marry the girl of his dreams. The boy, Chitose whose primary goal in life is to be with the girl, Tomo. Tomo who in response to Chitose’s proposal jokingly tells him he needs to be “this tall” (at least as tall as she is) to even propose to her. We follow Chitose’s growing pains as he navigates daily life and his love for Tomo. You Must Be This Tall to Propose is an enjoyable, heartwarming, sweet, wholesome slice of life story that although not new (predictable plot with numerous cliches) is still a great read. It has many funny moments and you can’t help but root for Chitose.

Thank you to #NetGalley, the author Fumi Mifuyu  and Kodansha Comics for a digital copy of #YouMustBeThisTalltoPropose in exchange for my honest opinion.

Review: Bless 1 by Yukino Sonoyama

In this YA manga, Aia, a model-gorgeous high school student with a talent for makeup and classmate Jun, a pretty, shy and quiet girl team up to organize a school fashion show. Throughout the story, Jun builds up her confidence while Aia continues to master and turn his love for makeup into an art form.

This is a cute story with lovable characters, you want to root for. Although it seems that the transitions “between scenes” were awkward this did not overshadow the central themes. The artwork was stunning. 

Mangas and comics do have themes and Bless 1 demonstrates that confidence and pursuing one's dreams and passions is key to a happy life. Also that self-confidence especially during the teenage years can really have an impact on one's future. I liked that Bless 1 did not stick to traditional gender roles. It shows Aia, a boy doing and loving something that is normally associated with girls, makeup. This should be applauded. Some of the best makeup artists in real life are men. I would read subsequent installments of Bless. 

Thank you to #NetGalley, the author Yukino Sonoyama and Kodansha Comics for a digital copy of #Bless in exchange for my honest opinion.

REVIEW: Real Life and Other Fictions by Susan Coll

Pleasantly surprised that  "Real Life and Other Fictions” was an enjoyable read. Susan Coll’s weaves an interesting We are introduced to Cassie, a woman in her 50s who finds herself at a crossroads. Orphaned as a toddler, she has spent her life tortured by the mysterious circumstances that caused her parents’ demise. She is also haunted by a “mythical creature” that she blames for her situation, her parents' demise, blurring the boundaries between reality and myth. It makes one question Cassie’s actions and thought processes. She almost seems to be unhinged. Her search for answers has consumed her five decades on earth and leads her from a failed career as a journalist to a community college lecturer. 

One day with her patience exhausted, not only from the past but also her present - her somewhat unstable, meme famous, cheating husband Cassie seizes the opportunity, takes her teething puppy, and embarks on a spontaneous road trip in search of the truth. She’s determined to start at the beginning and uncover the secrets of her past. This irrational spontaneity occurs a few times throughout the novel and leaves one to think that Cassie may actually be unstable. One of the very few issues I have with her. Cassie's journey unfolds as a surreal, comedic adventure infused with chaos, warmth and unraveled secrets. As she moves through this surreal landscape she encounters a colorful cast of characters, including an odd somewhat cold cryptozoologist who joins her quest. There may or may not be hints of a buddy romance here. This novel is definitely worth a read. 

Thank you to #NetGalley, the author Susan Coll and HarperCollins for a digital copy of #RealLifeandOtherFictions in exchange for my honest opinion.

REVIEW: The Intuition Toolkit by Joel Pearson

  In "The Intuition Toolkit: The New Science of Knowing What without Knowing Why," Joel Pearson, a leading Australian neuroscientist, provides practical advice to people who seek  guidance when it comes to decision making. Pearson shares five practical guidelines for cultivating intuition, which is backed by scientific research. In the book, the author emphasizes that while some individuals naturally use intuition more than others, everyone can develop and trust their own intuitive abilities. He provides five essential rules for harnessing one's intuition, summed up by the acronym SMILE: Self-awareness, Mastery, Impulses and Addiction, Low Probability and Environment.  Pearson uses numerous stories that underscore the scientific foundation, accessibility, and intrigue of intuitive understanding. This is just like any other self-help book, you get out of it what you want and cannot compare your interpretation of the information presented to other people. The information was thoughtful and Pearson presented it in a way that people can understand and follow.  

Thank you to #NetGalley, the author Joel Pearson and Simon & Schuster Australia for a digital copy of #TheIntuitionToolkit in exchange for my honest opinion.

REVIEW: Push, Then Breathe by Luissa Kiprono, MD

Push, Then Breathe: Trauma, Triumph, and the Making of an American Doctor by Luissa Kiprono, MD. 

Luissa Kiprono's memoir, "Push, Then Breathe" describes her remarkable journey from cherished childhood memories in Romania under Ceausescu's regime to enduring harrowing captivity and abuse by her father. She was able to escaped that marked the start of her path toward freedom, independence, and success. Steered by a resolved determination, hope and a positive outlook, Dr. Kiprono overcame her unimaginable circumstances. This memoir conveys a message of hope and empowerment to women, emphasizing one’s built-in worth.  It also shows the importance of pursuing one’s goals without self-imposed beliefs or limitations. Achieving her lifelong dream of becoming a Maternal-Fetal Medicine (MFM) specialist, a doctor that specializes in high-risk pregnancies. Dr. Kiprono now shares her experiences in a memoir that promises to enthrall and motivate readers.

Thank you to #NetGalley and the author Luissa Kiprono, MD for a digital copy of  #PushThenBreathe in exchange for my honest opinion. Disclaimer: Image courtesy of NetGalley.com. 

Review: Sketchy 1(Manga) by MAKIHIROCHI

 

Ako is stuck in a repetitive cycle, drifting through her twenties working at a video rental store and spending time with her boyfriend. Her days blend into one another in a monotonous haze. However, everything changes when she encounters a girl skateboarder practicing a daring trick. Intrigued, Ako feels a magnetic attraction to the sport. As she delves into skateboarding, dormant dreams and aspirations resurface, reigniting her passion and resolve. Ako decides to transform herself, determined to embrace change before it's too late. But can anyone truly be too late to uncover a new passion?

Thank you to #NetGalley and the author MAKIHIROCHI for a digital copy of the manga #Sketchy in exchange for my honest opinion. Disclaimer: Image courtesy of NetGalley.com. 

Review: Stan Lee by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara and Oriol Malet (Artist)

 "Stan Lee" is a delightful and inspiring biography for not only young readers but for anyone who has a dream. This beautifully illustrated book captures the essence of Stan Lee's life and his contributions to the world of comics with his iconic characters. The narrative is simple yet powerful, highlighting Lee's creativity, passion, and never give up attitude. It is an excellent introduction to Lee's life and legacy. The illustrations by Ana Albero are so vibrant, cute and are just right for a young audience.

Thank you to #NetGalley and the author Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara for a digital copy of #StanLee in exchange for my honest opinion.

Review - The Beast Player 1 by Nahoko Uehashi and Itoe Takemoto (Artist)

The first installment in The Beast Player is a captivating fantasy manga that immerses readers into a richly imagined world filled with unique creatures and intricate politics. The story follows Elin, a young girl and her mother, the "Beast Doctor," who have a mysterious connection to ancient beasts known as Toda.

As Elin navigates the complexities of her world, she learns more about her mother's gifts and starts to discover secrets that will  challenge her understanding of her world and identity. The political structure constructed by the author is quite interesting. Especially the relationship and use of the Toda. 

Overall, the first volume is a compelling start to what I hope to be an engrossing series. I look forward to seeing Elin not only develop as a character but also as a skilled practitioner to honor the memory of her mother. If you enjoy immersive fantasy worlds and strong, relatable protagonists, then you'll enjoy this series. 

Thank you to #NetGalley and the author for a digital copy of #TheBeastPlayer in exchange for my honest opinions.

3 - 3.5🌟