Book Reviews | Librariel Book Adventures

ARC: Class Action by Steven B. Frank

Posted on March 19, 2018March 21, 2018 by LibrAriel Book Adventures

Title: Class Action
Author: Steven B. Frank
Genre: Middle Grade Fiction
Pages: Print 243
Release Date: April 3, 2018
Rating: ★★★★★

Disclaimer: This review is solely my opinion. I was provided a copy of this book from @KidLitExchange #partner in exchange for my honest review. Thanks again to @KidLitExchange #partner for access to review a free copy of this book! The comments in this review do not reflect the views of the author or KidLitExchange. The copy used in this review is an uncorrected copy from HMH.

Dust Jacket Synopsis:

NO. MORE. HOMEWORK.

That’s what sixth grader Sam Warren tells his teacher while standing on top of his desk. He’s fed up with doing endless tasks from the time he gets home to the time he goes to sleep. Suspended for his protest, Sam decides to fight back. He recruits his elderly neighbor/retired attorney Mr. Kalman to help him file a class action lawsuit on behalf of all students in Los Angeles. Their argument? Homework is unconstitutional.

With a ragtag team—aspiring masterchef Alistair, numbers gal Catalina, sports whiz Jaesang, rebel big sister Sadie and her tech-savvy boyfriend Sean—Sam takes his case to federal court. He learns about the justice system, kids’ rights, and constitutional law. And he learns that no matter how many times you get knocked down, there’s always an appeal…until the nine justices have the last say.

Will Sam’s quest end in an epic fail, or will he be the hero who saves childhood for all time?

Favorite Quotes:

“Earlier this year we had to projects on endangered species. I did mine on the red panda because I love trees and so do they. But if I had to do it again, I’d choose a different endangered species. I’d choose childhood.” -Sam-

“You can’t tear down a wall if you don’t take a swing.” -Sam-

Final Thoughts:

This middle-grade fiction follows the life of Sam Warren. Sam has come home every day from school with mountains of homework. He has no time to build the treehouse with his dad, spend time with his mom, watch tv, or even hang out with his friends. His sister, Sadie, stays up late many nights working on special projects. One day in class, his teacher decides to give everyone a packet to complete over Columbus Day weekend. This weekend is one of his only a few long weekends he was looking forward. At this moment, Sam realizes that he cannot take it anymore, “it” being the endless amount of homework. Sam tries to rally other members of his class to stand with him against homework, but he learns that it is going to take a lot of hard work, a team of friends, an expert, and a sister on the debate team to keep homework away from home. Can Sam get homework removed from the home? Can Sam speak up for those students who are afraid to speak up? Will Sam stop student’s childhoods from going extinct?

Overall, Class Action is a fantastic story of bravery, commitment, determination, and the power of believing in yourself. A group of kids works together to achieve something that no one has ever tried to reach before. With the support of Sam’s parents and Sadie doing research, they might stand a chance to win their case. Mr. Kalman was tough to get on their team, but in the end, he was one of their biggest supporters. This novel encourages youth to stand up for what they believe in and not to be afraid to challenge their rights to freedom. The author did an excellent job with this storyline. I felt transported into the fight for no homework with the students in this book. I also liked the factual information provided about education court cases presented in this book. It served as a fiction read while also providing some educational facts. I personally would have liked for more interaction between Sam and the principal of the school. I think that would have added more to the story. I recommend this book to anyone interested in a fictional read that follows the life of one student who started a movement.

Interested in me reviewing your book or have suggested reads? Email me at librarielbookreviews@gmail.com

The Beauty That Remains by Ashley Woodfolk

Posted on March 19, 2018March 19, 2018 by LibrAriel Book Adventures

Title: The Beauty that Remains
Author: Ashley Woodfolk
Genre: Young Adult LGBTQ Contemporary
Pages: Print 324
Release Date: March 6, 2018
Rating: ★★★★.5

Goodreads Synopsis:

Music brought Autumn, Shay, and Logan together. Death wants to tear them apart.

Autumn always knew exactly who she was—a talented artist and a loyal friend. Shay was defined by two things: her bond with her twin sister, Sasha, and her love of music. And Logan always turned to writing love songs when his love life was a little less than perfect.

But when tragedy strikes each of them, somehow music is no longer enough. Now Logan can’t stop watching vlogs of his dead ex-boyfriend. Shay is a music blogger struggling to keep it together. And Autumn sends messages that she knows can never be answered.

Despite the odds, one band’s music will reunite them and prove that after grief, beauty thrives in the people left behind.

Favorite Quotes:

“Sometimes when I look in the mirror for too long, I start to look like someone else.” -Logan-

“Sometimes loving someone is scarier than leaving them.”

“Ever since, I’ve felt a little out of control. But there’s something about music that tethers me to the rest of the world.”- Shay-

“I just tell the rose how much I’m going to miss you. How much I already do. I miss you. I miss you. I miss you. There’s never an I miss you not. And there aren’t enough petals on the flower. There aren’t enough petals in the world.” -Autumn

Final Thoughts:

This young adult contemporary novel captures the view of loss from the perspective of three different teens. Each must learn to deal with the grief associated with losing someone close to them. They must learn to overcome the guilt, learn to move on with their lives, and face each day head-on. Autumn, Logan, and Shay are three teens who are connected by the music they enjoy and by the grief they have experience. The book starts off with the perspective of each teen following each crippling loss that has consumed their lives.

This entire novel I was captivated by the emotional connection I felt with each character. The author did a great job showcasing the different stages of grief and the challenges faced with trying to move on. Autumn lost her best friend, the only girl that understood her, and now she is clinging to the only person that understands her grief. Logan lost a former lover; he finds solace in alcohol rather than something healthier like music. Shay has lost her twin sister, her partner in crime, her best friend, and now she must move on with a project they started together. Autumn, Logan, and Shay learn to cope with their losses in unique ways. This young adult novel both provides examples of the different stages of grief but also examines the connections of sorrow. Each of these teens is connected to each other by the loss they share and the hope of escaping through music. Logan used to write the most beautiful songs but can’t pick up a pen. Autumn will only listen to specific music but refuses to draw. Shay, can’t seem to get through one music show without wanting to escape. The emotions showcased in this novel feel real, and the connections between each character are meaningful. These teens face some tough decisions they can only overcome with the help and support of family and friends. A loss is unpredictable but having a good support system can help in the healing process. This message is evident throughout this entire novel.

Overall, I thought this was a relatable original novel that had me engulfed in the story-line from the beginning. The author writes each chapter from the perspective of these three teens. I was on the verge of tears after reading about Shay’s sister, Logan’s lost lover, and Autumns best friend. I would have loved to learn more about the death of Autumn’s best friend and the same for the other members lost. I would have liked to see more development of the supporting characters such as Shay’s friends as well as Logan’s friends. I recommend this novel to anyone interested in a compelling young adult novel about loss and connection.

Interested in me reviewing your book or have suggested reads? Email me at librarielbookreviews@gmail.com

The Poet X by Elizabeth Acevedo

Posted on March 14, 2018March 14, 2018 by LibrAriel Book Adventures

Title:The Poet X
Author: Elizabeth Acevedo
Genre: Young Adult Contemporary
Pages: Print 357
Release Date: March 6, 2018
Rating: ★★★★★

Goodreads Synopsis:

Xiomara Batista feels unheard and unable to hide in her Harlem neighborhood. Ever since her body grew into curves, she has learned to let her fists and her fierceness do the talking.

But Xiomara has plenty she wants to say, and she pours all her frustration and passion onto the pages of a leather notebook, reciting the words to herself like prayers—especially after she catches feelings for a boy in her bio class named Aman, who her family can never know about. With Mami’s determination to force her daughter to obey the laws of the church, Xiomara understands that her thoughts are best kept to herself.

So when she is invited to join her school’s slam poetry club, she doesn’t know how she could ever attend without her mami finding out, much less speak her words out loud. But still, she can’t stop thinking about performing her poems.

Because in the face of a world that may not want to hear her, Xiomara refuses to be silent.

Favorite Quotes:

“Their gazes are words are heavy with all the things they want you to be.”

“It is ungrateful to feel like a burden. It is ungrateful to resent my own birth.”

“….she should be remembered as always working to become the warrior she wanted to be.”

“If I were nothing but dust would anyone chase the wind trying to piece me back together?”

Final Thoughts:

The Poet X is a compelling young adult novel written about the challenges faced by a young Xiomara. In a world that never hears her, she must find her voice and speak up. Xiomara and her twin brother are seen as their parent’s gift from God. Her parent’s struggled to have children, and the twins were their miracle. The two have to live up to the high expectations of their mother and the lack of awareness from their father.

Growing up in a Catholic household, Xiomara is taught not only the ways of her Catholic mother. She is continuously scolded when she breaks any rules. She learns to explore her feelings for the opposite sex while trying not to get caught. She experiences her first love, shares her first kiss, and hides a secret about her brother. Mami continues to put immense pressure on Xiomara, expecting her uphold to a high set of standards or be punished. X continues to be exploited solely for her looks instead of for her intelligence or words. Her only place of solace in the poetry club at her school. Her English teacher encourages her to apply for the poetry slam in the upcoming months. Xiomara expresses her feelings through her poetry until one day she goes mute after a terrible thing between her and her mother. Can she ever forgive her mother? Will her mother ever accept her? How long can she keep Twin’s secret?

Overall, I thought this was a great novel, and I enjoyed the relationship between Xiomara and her English teacher. I like the concept that teachers have a significant influence on students. It is always great to read about teachers encouraging their students. I think the author did a great job with the writing of this book and I enjoyed the poetry format. I felt more connected with each character as the emotions were eloquently displayed. I recommend this book to young adults between the ages of thirteen and up. I had a teen ask about poetry books recently, and I suggested this book.

Interested in me reviewing your book or have suggested reads? Email me at librarielbookreviews@gmail.com

Hayley Soon by Andrew Henley

Posted on March 9, 2018 by LibrAriel Book Adventures

Title: Hayley Soon
Author: Andrew Henley
Genre: Young Adult Contemporary LGBTQ
Pages: Print 192
Rating: ★★★

Disclaimer: The contents of this review is solely my opinion and mine alone. A copy of this book was sent to me directly from the author in exchange for my honest review. The comments in this review do not reflect the views of the author or the publisher.

Goodreads Synopsis:

Hayley Soon is the tale of a Korean-American transgirl with a fractured mental health, obsession with pop culture, cosplay and a rapidly declining interest in her studies.

Featuring movies, music and a diverse cast all entangled in themes so dark you’ll need a flashlight, Hayley Soon puts the trans in transgressive fiction.

Final Thoughts:

A copy of this book was sent to me by the author in exchange for my honest review. In the past, I have read novels that showcase the challenges faced by members of the LGBTQ community. These books shed light on the struggles that non-cisgender individuals face on an everyday basis. The author of this book tries to shed light on some of those challenges.

Hayley Soon is a short novel that focuses on the life of a Korean American transgender. Hayley struggles with finding a place where she belongs. She struggles with the challenges of embracing her body even if it isn’t what she wants it to be. She struggles with bullying from a former high school classmate and even going to the bathroom in public. Hayley has a hard time trying to accept herself for who she is and embracing her inner beauty. Many people have given her compliments on her appearance just as much as people have chosen to bash her appearance in person and online. Will she ever figure out where she belongs? Will her mother finally accept her? Or will everyone continue to refer to her as her birth name?

Overall, I liked the idea of this novel and the focus content but did not entirely like the delivery. I wanted more of the story with Hayley, and the ending left me questioning a lot of things. What happened to her after the incident? Why wasn’t her best friend more supportive? Why did Hayley keep the secret from her best friend? The story felt more like it was occurring in a high school versus on a college campus. The bullying felt a bit high school and did not feel realistic. I have seen contemporary novels that felt a bit more realistic, but this just felt like the information was not pulled from realistic experiences but from what someone thought it would be like. I felt as though there could have been more development of the storyline, a more developed ending, a bit more drama, more problem solving, and more realism. Of course, I understand that this is fiction novel, which it feels fictional, I just expected more.

The main character Hayley does struggle a lot in this book, and she is portrayed as a character who has a mental illness that has not been diagnosed. She struggles with anxiety, depression, identification issues, and self-esteem issues. If you are interested in reading a book about a transgender person who faces many daily struggles and finds unique ways to cope, then this is your novel. If you have experienced extreme depression and anxiety, this novel has a few triggers in here so I would read this at a cautious pace. If you are a person who just wants to read a unique story that challenges many theories, then you should pick this book.

Interested in me reviewing your book or have suggested reads? Email me at librarielbookreviews@gmail.com

Alex and Eliza by Melissa De La Cruz

Posted on March 9, 2018 by LibrAriel Book Adventures

eliza and alex — The following image is taken from https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/32860355-alex-and-eliza

Title: Alex & Eliza: A Love Story
Author: Melissa De La Cruz
Next Book in the Series: Love & War: An Alex and Eliza Story (Releases in April)
Genre: Young Adult Historical Fiction
Print: 368 pages
Rating: ★★★★★

Disclaimer: This review is solely my opinion. I checked out a copy of this book from my local library. The comments in this review do not reflect the views of the author or the publisher.

Goodreads Synopsis:

1777. Albany, New York.

As battle cries of the American Revolution echo in the distance, servants flutter about preparing for one of New York society’s biggest events: the Schuylers’ grand ball. Descended from two of the oldest and most distinguished bloodlines in New York, the Schuylers are proud to be one of their fledgling country’s founding families, and even prouder still of their three daughters—Angelica, with her razor-sharp wit; Peggy, with her dazzling looks; and Eliza, whose beauty and charm rival that of both her sisters, though she’d rather be aiding the colonists’ cause than dressing up for some silly ball.

Still, she can barely contain her excitement when she hears of the arrival of one Alexander Hamilton, a mysterious, rakish young colonel and General George Washington’s right-hand man. Though Alex has arrived as the bearer of bad news for the Schuylers, he can’t believe his luck—as an orphan, and a bastard one at that—to be in such esteemed company. And when Alex and Eliza meet that fateful night, so begins an epic love story that would forever change the course of American history.

Final Thoughts:

The story of Eliza and Alex marks my first time reading a book written by this author, and I adored the writing style used. This book is my second historical fiction read of this year, and the author did a great job portraying the story of Eliz and Alex. I listened to this book on audio but will read the print version of the next in the series. I wanted to read this one since I am a part of a blog tour for the next book in the series.

I enjoyed the historical references throughout this novel. I loved that the author did her research before writing this book. I have a BA in History, and it is hard to find historical fictions that have somewhat relevant information in them. The time frame of the war, the challenges women on the home front faced, and the problems of men enlisting in the war were portrayed excellently in this book. The love story between Eliza and Alex was one that was remarkable. The interaction between each character enhanced the overall storyline. There were a lot of moments in this book that had me laughing. I especially loved the first part of the novel when the Schuyler’s threw a party to marry of the three sisters. The eldest of the Schuyler sisters is a spunky, determined, level-headed, older sister who feels she must marry well. Each daughter must find a suitable mate that will not only enhance the already established family name but also financially support the daughter. Alex does not fit any of these requirements. He struggles to earn the trust of one Schuyler sister in particular while trying to help in the war efforts instead of just being General Washington’s clerk. Alex struggles to find his place in the world, struggles to fight for the one he loves, and struggles to know his worth. Is love worth more than power? Does love truly conquer all?

Overall, I thought the author did an excellent job with this novel. She focused on the struggles intellectual women faced during the time of American Independence. Women were meant to be seen but not heard. Eliza is an intelligent woman who wants to contribute to the war effort like her aunt. She wants to feel as though she is making a difference. She isn’t worried about clothing or class, but she struggles to follow her heart in a time where her parents make the final decision. Eliza and Alex both grow together in this novel, and the character development of each is impeccable. This story is filled with love, loss, bravery, honor, and strength. I recommend this book to anyone interested in a young adult historical fiction.

What is your favorite historical fiction?

Interested in me reviewing your book or have suggested reads? Email me at librarielbookreviews@gmail.com

A Wrinkle in Time by Madeline L’Engle

Posted on March 9, 2018 by LibrAriel Book Adventures

Title: A Wrinkle in Time
Author: Madeline L’Engle
Series: Quintet
Next Book in the Series: A Wind in the Door
Genre: Middle Grade Fantasy
Pages: Print 251
Rating: ★★★★

Disclaimer: This review is solely my opinion. I purchased a copy of this book from my local library in anticipation of the movie. The comments in this review do not reflect the views of the author or the publisher.

Goodreads Synopsis:

It was a dark and stormy night; Meg Murry, her small brother Charles Wallace, and her mother had come down to the kitchen for a midnight snack when they were upset by the arrival of a most disturbing stranger.

“Wild nights are my glory,” the unearthly stranger told them. “I just got caught in a downdraft and blown off course. Let me be on my way. Speaking of way, by the way, there is such a thing as a tesseract”.

Meg’s father had been experimenting with this fifth dimension of time travel when he mysteriously disappeared. Now the time has come for Meg, her friend Calvin, and Charles Wallace to rescue him. But can they outwit the forces of evil they will encounter on their heart-stopping journey through space?

Final Thoughts:

I have never heard of this book until the recent release of the movie. I read it in one morning as it was a short read. I, with the help of the programming department, planned an event at my library to provide STEM activities and free tickets to the movie. I wanted to read the book in case someone asked me questions about it during the program, no one asked me questions, but I stilled shared information about the book with the kids.

The book has a Christian influence throughout the reading. I felt that two ideals were clashing in this novel, i.e., science and religion. I could tell there was a religious influence throughout the pages due to the “non-earthly beings” referred to as guardian angels toward the end of the book. The book initially published in 1962 and the dated terminology was noticeable throughout this entire novel. The influence of science and technology was prevalent as well. The description of the time travel was fascinating and the diagrams displayed in the book were helpful in understanding the proposed time travel theory. I enjoyed the influence of science, technology, time, and family in this book. I adored the main characters, Margaret and Charlie. I loved the description of Margaret and how she continued to underestimate herself. In contrast, Charlie purposely projected himself as being illiterate to others so that they may underestimate his abilities. Each child has something special inside of them, and they just need to stick to their guns and never give up on themselves.

The mention of Margaret struggling in school not because of the curriculum but because of the lack of a challenge was significant. This is something that is still relevant in schools today. Students aren’t necessarily illiterate; they just need to solve problems the best way that works for them. The book continues to showcase the importance of family and believing in yourself as we watch the two siblings, Calvin, and their guardian angels work together to defeat “IT.” The all must learn their strengths to travel through time and space to save Margaret and Charlie’s dad.

Overall this is an exciting book. I like the lessons that were being taught in this novel and enjoyed the interaction between characters. I have never read this book and only heard of it recently. The concept that you can create a wrinkle in time to travel through dimensions indeed makes this fantasy novel stand out. The author did a great job capturing my attention, but there were also parts where I felt confused. The ending felt a bit rushed, and I wanted more. I haven’t decided if I’m going to look into obtaining the next novels in this series, but if you are interested in a fantasy book that will leave you feeling intrigued, this is your book.

Have you read ever read this book? What did you think of it?

Interested in me reviewing your book or have suggested reads? Email me at librarielbookreviews@gmail.com

ARC Review: Sleight by Jennifer Sommersby

Posted on March 5, 2018 by LibrAriel Book Adventures

Title: Sleight
Author: Jennifer Sommersby
Genre: Young Adult Fantasy
Pages: Print 408
Release Date: April 2018
Rating: ★★★★★

Disclaimer: This review is solely my opinion. I was provided a copy of this book from Skyhorse Publishing Inc #partner in exchange for my honest review. Thanks again to Skyhorse Publishing Inc #partner for access to review a free copy of this book! The comments in this review do not reflect the views of the author the publishing company. The copy used in this review is an uncorrected copy from Skyhorse Publishing Inc.

Goodreads Synopsis:

Growing up in the Cinzio Traveling Players Company, Genevieve Flannery is accustomed to a life most teenagers could never imagine: daily workouts of extravagant acrobatics; an extended family of clowns; wild animals for pets; and her mother, Delia, whose mind has always been tortured by visions—but whose love Geni never questions. In a world of performers who astonish and amaze on a daily basis, Delia’s ghostly hallucinations never seemed all that strange . . . until the evening Geni and her mother are performing an aerial routine they’ve done hundreds of times, and Delia falls to her death.

That night, a dark curtain in Geni’s life opens. Everything has changed.

Still reeling from the tragedy, the Cinzio Traveling Players are also adjusting to the circus’s new owner: a generous, mysterious man whose connection to the circus—Geni suspects—has a dark and dangerous history. And suddenly Geni is stumbling into a new reality of her own, her life interrupted daily by the terrors only Delia used to be able to see.

As the visions around her grow stronger, Geni isn’t sure who she can trust. Even worse, she’s starting to question whether she can trust her own mind.

Favorite Quotes:

“Genevieve, the key to good is found in truth.”

“Henry places one of his now very warm hands on my cheek, the flush of memory pushing through me as the scene unfolds in the forefront of my mind- that day at the circus when we first met in the mess tent as I stood between Baby and Lucian.”

Final Thoughts:

After reading the synopsis of this book, I thought it would be great to request an advanced reader copy of this novel. I have not yet read a book that involved a circus and was very intrigued by the different components showcased in this book. I am a fan of fantasy novels and enjoy books that have some mage component in the storyline. The book starts off with a thrilling opening act involving Delia and her daughter Genevieve. This opening chapter is the part of the book that grabbed my attention from the moment Delia fell to her death while her daughter watched from afar. I almost shrieked in horror after reading this part of the book. The author did a great job capturing this moment in the opening chapter. The book continues with us watching how Gen deals with the loss of her mother and how the circus must move on. A new owner has purchased the circus and while Gen is still trying to figure out the cryptic message her mother left behind, she must also watch her every corner in this new place. She has to figure out who she can trust while diving into her mothers past and trying to connect the puzzle pieces Delia left behind for her. With Baby as her trusted companion, the help of Alicia (a friend of her mothers), and the support of family friends Genevieve will learn more about her mothers past leading to discoveries about herself. Family history is essential in this book as we watch Genevieve, dive into her family tree. She must fight to protect her mothers secrets and protect the ones she loves. Will Genevieve discover the secrets her mother kept hidden from her and will she be able to protect them? What happens when all of her mothers secrets are uncovered? Can she protect everyone she loves and fight for everything her family’s legacy? This is a lot of pressure for a seventeen year old!

Overall this book is written well with copious amounts of descriptive terminology that comes in handy. I was able to imagine the circus based merely on the words used in this novel. The author did a great job capturing my attention throughout this book. It is filled with some subtle and action-packed scenes. I would have preferred to learn more about Henry’s mother and the supporting member’s roles in Delia’s life. I wanted to know more about the other members of the circus and more about Genevieve’s desire to become a Vet. I would have liked more circus action, but the balance seemed adequate with the length of the novel. How has Gen be able to keep that big secret about the power she holds and how long can she keep it?

The story completely entranced me from the moment I opened this book to the ending. The cliffhanger at the end had me wishing for more. I recommend this book to anyone interested in a Young Adult Fantasy novel that focuses on family history, family ties, magic, romance, and circus with a hint of historical references. This book combined all of my favorite genres into one all-encompassing novel. I am more than excited to see what this author does with the second book and am curious as to how Genevieve and Henry’s journey will unfold.

Interested in me reviewing your book or have suggested reads? Email me at librarielbookreviews@gmail.com

The Great Shelby Holmes by Elizabeth Eulberg

Posted on February 26, 2018February 26, 2018 by LibrAriel Book Adventures

Title: The Great Shelby Holmes
Author: Elizabeth Eulberg
Series: Trilogy
Next Book in the Series: The Great Shelby Holmes Meets Her Match
Genre: Middle Grade Mystery
Pages: Print 243
Rating: ★★★★

Disclaimer: This review is solely my opinion. I checked out a copy of this book from my local library. The comments in this review do not reflect the views of the author or the publisher.

Goodreads Synopsis:

Meet spunky sleuth Shelby and her sports-loving sidekick Watson as they take on a dog-napper in this fresh twist on Sherlock Holmes.
Shelby Holmes is not your average sixth grader. She’s nine years old, barely four feet tall, and the best detective her Harlem neighborhood has ever seen—always using logic and a bit of pluck (which yes, some might call “bossiness”) to solve the toughest crimes.

When eleven-year-old John Watson moves downstairs, Shelby finds something that’s eluded her up till now: a friend. Easy-going John isn’t sure of what to make of Shelby, but he soon finds himself her most-trusted (read: only) partner in a dog-napping case that’ll take both their talents to crack.

Sherlock Holmes gets a fun, sweet twist with two irresistible young heroes and black & white illustrations throughout in this middle grade debut from internationally bestselling YA author Elizabeth Eulberg.

Favorite Quotes:

“I observe. Then I assemble all my observations into several different theories and pick the on with the likeliest narrative. It’s called deductive reasoning. I don’t understand why others don’t do it. I realize some people find my observations rude, but I don’t know when to stay quiet.” -Shelby-

Final Thoughts:

This book is filled with a set of diverse characters. We follow the story of Shelby Holmes and John Watson, two unlikely friends who grow to learn something new from each other. John is new to the busy New York City, and he is looking for someone to guide him around his neighborhood. Shelby seems like a nice person who looks to be about his age, so why not follow her around for a bit. Shelby is not too excited about her new follower. Shelby is a smart, outspoken, seven year old who solves mysteries in her neighborhood. She doesn’t have friends she has contacts. Watson just moved to the community with his newly divorced military doctor mother. He is slowly adapting to his new neighborhood and trying to find his motivation to write again. The two unlikely pair are approached by Tamra after her prized show dog goes missing. Shelby and Watson search through clear clues while Tamra and her family argue over which one of them stole the dog. Will Shelby and Watson solve the mystery? Will Shelby accept Watson as a friend?

This is my first middle-grade mystery novel involving a stolen dog. The book was fascinating, but the idea of the family arguing with each other over who took the dog was a bit far-fetched. I also did not like the part in the story where Shelby was interacting with a “sketchy” character. I thought that part of the story was wholly inappropriate and should not have been included in the book. I could not believe this was in there. I also thought two young children exploring the streets of New York unsupervised was a bit unlikely in today’s society. I would have liked that part to be a little more realistic. I did like the idea of freedom of expression and the mystery solving tactics in this book. Some tactics were unnecessary but comical. The author did a great with this book by capturing the attention of the reader, and it makes me want to read the second one in this series. I thoroughly enjoyed each character, and I am hoping to learn more about Shelby Holmes’ family. I recommend this book to middle-grade students in the earlier grades. It is on the Texas Bluebonnet List.

Have you read any good mysteries lately?

Share them in the comments below!

Interested in me reviewing your book or have suggested reads? Email me at librarielbookreviews@gmail.com

Just For A While by Zoe Haslie

Posted on February 24, 2018 by LibrAriel Book Adventures

Title: Just For A While
Author: Zoe Haslie
Genre: Young Adult Romance
Pages: E-Book
Release Date: January 21, 2018
Rating: ★★★★.5

Disclaimer: This review is solely my opinion. I was provided a copy of this book from the author #partner in exchange for my honest review. The comments in this review do not reflect the views of the author. The copy used in this review is a final copy of the published book.

Goodreads Synopsis:

Charlotte Harrington is capable of love, but the feelings of love, of letting anyone close to her, scare her. Seventeen-year-old Charlotte’s life turns brusquely when her mother sends her away to spend the summer before college with her father—a man she knows nothing about and cares even less for. Thus, forced by a promise she made to her mom, and having secretly thrown her future away, Charlie finds herself stuck for an indefinite time in the coastal town of Rosetown. Raised by a single mother, Charlotte grew up to be an independent, suspicious, and lonely girl. To make matters worse, she is stubborn to the bone. Moving in with Daniel proves to be a challenge for both of them, as he will try his best to get to know her, and she will systematically undo his every attempt.
When Misha Breckenridge literally bumps into her life, along with his mesmerizing black eyes and his challenging ways, Charlotte finds herself stepping in quicksand. Despite her attempts to keep him —and every other person, for that matter—at a safe distance, Misha will soon find his way into her heart, making her lower her guard and open her long-closed heart to love.

As the summer unfolds, Rosetown and its memorable inhabitants inevitably start to grow on Charlotte. But, will she ever manage to forgive Daniel for walking out on her and her mother? Will she be able to let him into her heart and her life.

Favorite Quotes:

“But all those worries, all those ugly memories, and all that sadness now belonged in the past.”

“Charlotte Harington was truly remarkable at keeping her distance from anyone who might jeopardize her emotional safety.”

“I loved the feeling of not being charge for a change and having no other choice but to let go, and hope for the best.”

Final Thoughts:

Just For A While, is a debut novel for upcoming author Zoe Haslie, and I think she did a fantastic job with this book. I usually am leaning more towards fantasy novels, but this book exceeded my expectations of a romance novel. I loved the hint of drama and family relationships throughout this book. Charlotte struggles with learning how to love herself before she can genuinely open herself up to new relationships. Charlotte must learn not to let the failed relationship of her parents and the disease that has caused pain to her mother, affect her life. She has to learn to regain those feelings she put aside to support her mother and learn to accept her father. Charlotte learns to accept the new town she is living in and learn to be a friend to a person in need. She steps up to the plate when needed, taking full responsibility for her actions. In the end, will she find love, or will she lose more than she thought while protecting a friend? The growth of Charlotte as a character is something that I loved about this book. The author did a great job highlighting the struggles of having a parent that is battling something you cannot control.

Overall, I thought this was a well-written book. I enjoyed the heartfelt moments, the building of relationships, and the ending. This book filled with swoon-worthy moments that had me feeling warm and fuzzy on the inside. I felt the plot twist a bit last luster, and some parts could have developed more. For example, I wanted to know more about Charlotte’s mom, Natalie, and more about Daniel’s relationship with Olivia’s mom. I thought there was a hint of something more, but then it was not explored in the book. I did like the explanation of the relationship between Natalie and Daniel. I did, however, want to know more about the letters that discussed in this book. I gave this book a four-star rating because of the areas that I felt could have been developed more. I think the author did a fantastic job on this book and the overall story-line is clear. I recommend this book to anyone interested in a heartfelt, family drama filled novel that follows the journey of a girl who just wants feel love.

Interested in me reviewing your book or have suggested reads? Email me at librarielbookreviews@gmail.com

ARC Review: Dory Fantasymagor

Posted on February 24, 2018February 24, 2018 by LibrAriel Book Adventures

Title: Dory Fantasymagory: Head in the Clouds
Author: Abby Hanlon

Genre: Elementary/ Juvenile Fiction

Pages: Print 147
Release Date: March 6, 2018
Rating: ★★★★★

Disclaimer: This review is solely my opinion. I was provided a copy of this book from Penguin Young Readers partner in exchange for my honest review. The comments in this review do not reflect the views of the author or the publisher. The copy used in this review is an uncorrected copy from the publisher, some quotes may have been changed prior to publishing.

Synopsis:

A loose tooth leads to hilarious hijinks with the tooth fairy in book four of the wonderfully imaginative Dory Fantasmagory series Dory has her first loose tooth, and, with her usual over-the-top excitement, she cannot stop talking about the tooth fairy. Naturally, this drives her brother and sister crazy. But it also sparks a serious jealous streak in her nemesis, Mrs. Gobble Cracker, who wants all of Dory’s attention to herself.

But Mrs. Gobble Gracker has decided to steal the tooth fairy’s job, and flying around in a tutu from Rosabelle, she heads for Dory’s house. It’s time for Dory to come up with a serious plan to get the tooth fairy her job back.

The fourth installment in the wildly popular Dory Fantasmagory series delivers laughs on every page as Dory teams up with her pals, real and imaginary, to save the tooth fairy for all the world’s children–and get her dollar!

Author Bio:

Abby Hanlon has taught creative writing and first grade in the New York City public school system. Inspired by her students’ storytelling and drawings, Abby began to write her own stories for children, and taught herself to draw after not having drawn since childhood.

Final Thoughts:

Overall, this book is filled with a large amount of imaginative actions. The book encourages younger children to challenge their imagination. Huge kids shouldn’t be afraid to take risks and embrace imagination. The author did a great job capturing the attention of the reader based on the intended age. There is a hint of sibling rivalry, family quirks, and problem solving. Dory faces many challenges but she continues remain imaginative.

The book is written well and enforces the idea to act accordingly. It does encourage the aspects of imaging. The author emphasizes the reader to consider different options on their actions. This book is intended for grades one to two. I recommend this novel to elementary school children who are in earlier grades. It’s developed well enough to serve as a guide in a reading class.

Interested in me reviewing your book or have suggested reads? Email me at librarielbookreviews@gmail.com