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jillccox's reviews
801 reviews
Her Royal Spyness by Rhys Bowen
5.0
I absolutely LOVE all the books in this series. They are funny, historical, and a mystery... the perfect combination. :) Although now I want a maid. ;)
When We Left Cuba by Chanel Cleeton
4.0
I adored Next Year in Havana, so I had high expectations going in. I had a harder time getting into this book than I did Next Year in Havana, but eventually I was hooked. The truth that loves means sacrifice was heartbreakingly beautiful.
Cinder by Marissa Meyer
4.0
I picked up this book grudgingly. In fact, I only read Cinder because I needed to read a steam punk book for a library reading challenge. My daughter said that several of her friends had enjoyed it and... I did too. Although the plot was predictable (I had the "big reveal" figured out very early on), I have become attached to Cinder and Kai. I like them as characters and want to know what happens next. Cinder was a quick, easy read, but full of enough action and adventure keep me engaged and turning pages. I guess I will be reading the rest of the series soon!
Becoming by Michelle Obama
5.0
“Becoming requires equal parts patience and rigor. Becoming is never giving up on the idea that there’s more growing to be done.” -Michelle Obama
I don’t normally love memoirs, but this one was captivating. I was inspired as I learned more about Mrs. Obama’s childhood, her courtship with President Obama, their journey to the White House, and the work they did there. As a bit of a political junkie, it was especially interesting reading Becoming during an election year. I also gained a greater appreciation for who the Obamas are and what motivated their service. Mrs. Obama’s optimism, in spite of the divisiveness in our current society gave me a much-needed shot of optimism too. I did not expect to cry reading this book, but I did... tears of sorrow, joy, and hope. Whether you voted for Barack Obama or note or enjoy politics or not, Michelle Obamas story is inspiring.
I don’t normally love memoirs, but this one was captivating. I was inspired as I learned more about Mrs. Obama’s childhood, her courtship with President Obama, their journey to the White House, and the work they did there. As a bit of a political junkie, it was especially interesting reading Becoming during an election year. I also gained a greater appreciation for who the Obamas are and what motivated their service. Mrs. Obama’s optimism, in spite of the divisiveness in our current society gave me a much-needed shot of optimism too. I did not expect to cry reading this book, but I did... tears of sorrow, joy, and hope. Whether you voted for Barack Obama or note or enjoy politics or not, Michelle Obamas story is inspiring.
The Extraordinary Life of Rosa Parks by Dr. Sheila Kanani
5.0
I adored this interesting book about Rosa Parks. I learned so much about her, especially about her early life. I love that the book was sprinkled with illustrations and graphic quotes. The graphic novel feel makes it very kid friendly. I was inspired and can’t wait to share it with my children.
1984 by George Orwell
4.0
The current political climate drew me to this book. I felt like I had to read it to be able to speak intelligently about the challenges facing America (and the world) and the possible outcomes of different actions. It’s pretty depressing and the characters aren’t well developed. I had to force myself to get through the first half, but it in the end it was thought-provoking and I’m glad I read it.