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3734 reviews
Jackaby by William Ritter
Abigail Rook comes to a new city looking for adventure and finds a job as an assistant to free-lance detective Jackaby. Jackaby has a rare gift as a seer. He can see magical residue and detect magical creatures that are otherwise invisible. He tries to assist the police in a murder investigation, but the police chief doesn't believe in supernatural nonsense. Miss Rook tags along in the investigation, and she is intrigued by a young policeman named Charlie. The case becomes more and more dangerous until it is evident that they are tracking a serial killer with magical abilities of some kind.
I loved this book so much! I really liked the world-building and the way that the supernatural creatures and people are trying to mingle with ordinary humans. At first no one in their right mind believes in magical beings or creatures, but through the investigation, even the police chief starts to realize that magical things are happening right under their noses.
I especially loved Jackaby and Miss Rook and their detective partnership. They are both full of witty remarks and flippant little quips. Jackaby kind of reminded me of Doctor Who in the way that he carelessly meets danger with no plan and silly grin. Utterly delightful!
I loved Miss Rook's character! She is very introspective, analyzing the clues and analyzing her relationships with people. We get to see her emotional turmoil as she tries to adjust to her life in the big city. She goes on quite an inner journey to find the confidence to trust herself and be able to assist in the investigation. She is so spunky!
The writing style is excellent. The plot is mysterious and fun! The mystery really kept me guessing, and I loved all the strange clues. Because there are magical elements in play, it's difficult to tell what is just a normal clue or what is some weird supernatural power at work. There are a lot of moving parts in the plot, and characters with different abilities and secret knowledge. It becomes like this weird game of chess with red herrings all over the place, until you realize that the red herrings are actually the center of the mystery. Such great plot twists!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a free and honest review. All the opinions stated here are my own true thoughts, and are not influenced by anyone.
5.0
Abigail Rook comes to a new city looking for adventure and finds a job as an assistant to free-lance detective Jackaby. Jackaby has a rare gift as a seer. He can see magical residue and detect magical creatures that are otherwise invisible. He tries to assist the police in a murder investigation, but the police chief doesn't believe in supernatural nonsense. Miss Rook tags along in the investigation, and she is intrigued by a young policeman named Charlie. The case becomes more and more dangerous until it is evident that they are tracking a serial killer with magical abilities of some kind.
I loved this book so much! I really liked the world-building and the way that the supernatural creatures and people are trying to mingle with ordinary humans. At first no one in their right mind believes in magical beings or creatures, but through the investigation, even the police chief starts to realize that magical things are happening right under their noses.
I especially loved Jackaby and Miss Rook and their detective partnership. They are both full of witty remarks and flippant little quips. Jackaby kind of reminded me of Doctor Who in the way that he carelessly meets danger with no plan and silly grin. Utterly delightful!
I loved Miss Rook's character! She is very introspective, analyzing the clues and analyzing her relationships with people. We get to see her emotional turmoil as she tries to adjust to her life in the big city. She goes on quite an inner journey to find the confidence to trust herself and be able to assist in the investigation. She is so spunky!
The writing style is excellent. The plot is mysterious and fun! The mystery really kept me guessing, and I loved all the strange clues. Because there are magical elements in play, it's difficult to tell what is just a normal clue or what is some weird supernatural power at work. There are a lot of moving parts in the plot, and characters with different abilities and secret knowledge. It becomes like this weird game of chess with red herrings all over the place, until you realize that the red herrings are actually the center of the mystery. Such great plot twists!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a free and honest review. All the opinions stated here are my own true thoughts, and are not influenced by anyone.
Climbing the Stairs by Padma Venkatraman
Vidya is 15 years old during WWII, and she worries that her family will arrange a marriage for her before she can finish school or go to college like she dreams. All around her, the world is in turmoil as British-occupied India fights on all sides, not only against Germany and Japan, but against the racism and political unrest in their own country. Vidya learns that not all British are racist, but also that the Indian people can be racist against their own people in the caste system.
When Vidya's family must move into her grandfather's house, Vidya loses the happy and free family life she used to enjoy. Now she is hampered by the traditions and rules of her strict Brahmin family. But she manages to sneak upstairs to the library and finds freedom and inspiration in books.
This was tough to read. There is so much racism and violence and bullying on all sides. It was just really difficult to stomach all of that, and it made me upset. But it was definitely interesting to see this window into history and learn about the traditions of the Indian culture at this time.
I really liked Vidya's complex character. She is spunky and strong with a very independent personality. But she also makes mistakes and does dumb things sometimes. It was interesting to see her character development as she grows up and decides for herself what kind of life she wants to lead.
2.5
Vidya is 15 years old during WWII, and she worries that her family will arrange a marriage for her before she can finish school or go to college like she dreams. All around her, the world is in turmoil as British-occupied India fights on all sides, not only against Germany and Japan, but against the racism and political unrest in their own country. Vidya learns that not all British are racist, but also that the Indian people can be racist against their own people in the caste system.
When Vidya's family must move into her grandfather's house, Vidya loses the happy and free family life she used to enjoy. Now she is hampered by the traditions and rules of her strict Brahmin family. But she manages to sneak upstairs to the library and finds freedom and inspiration in books.
This was tough to read. There is so much racism and violence and bullying on all sides. It was just really difficult to stomach all of that, and it made me upset. But it was definitely interesting to see this window into history and learn about the traditions of the Indian culture at this time.
I really liked Vidya's complex character. She is spunky and strong with a very independent personality. But she also makes mistakes and does dumb things sometimes. It was interesting to see her character development as she grows up and decides for herself what kind of life she wants to lead.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Racial slurs, Racism, and Violence
Minor: Medical content
The House of a Thousand Candles Illustrated by Meredith Nicholson
If he wants to inherit his grandfather's estate, John Glenarm must stay at a country house in Indiana for at least a year without leaving. His grandfather did not approve of his grandson's wandering ways, so he devised this clause in the will to force his grandson to put down some roots. On his first night in the country house, John is shot at through the open window of the dining room. This begins an adventure that includes espionage, fugitives, hidden treasure, and a family secret that will change John's entire life. In the middle of all the mystery is Marian Devereux, who will inherit the entire estate if John fails to stay in the country for the entire year.
I loved this mystery adventure! There are so many layers to the mystery, and half the time nobody knows what is going on. There are a lot of shady characters in the background who are up to no good. A few of the characters are total mysteries, and we don't know whether they are good or bad until the very end. They might be allies to John, or they might be enemies, secretly working against him. I loved the suspense!
I liked the silly flirtations between Marian and John. They are a couple of wild characters and their mood swings certainly keep things interesting. I also really liked that Marian is a musician. That was a pleasant surprise, and gave the reader an insight into her character. Seeing John's reaction to her music also gives us a new layer to his personality.
I didn't really like John. He is always losing his temper, shouting and screaming at people, banging his fists on the table, threatening people, grabbing the butler by the collar and throwing him down on the floor. Learn some self-control, dude. Not my idea of a hero.
4.0
If he wants to inherit his grandfather's estate, John Glenarm must stay at a country house in Indiana for at least a year without leaving. His grandfather did not approve of his grandson's wandering ways, so he devised this clause in the will to force his grandson to put down some roots. On his first night in the country house, John is shot at through the open window of the dining room. This begins an adventure that includes espionage, fugitives, hidden treasure, and a family secret that will change John's entire life. In the middle of all the mystery is Marian Devereux, who will inherit the entire estate if John fails to stay in the country for the entire year.
I loved this mystery adventure! There are so many layers to the mystery, and half the time nobody knows what is going on. There are a lot of shady characters in the background who are up to no good. A few of the characters are total mysteries, and we don't know whether they are good or bad until the very end. They might be allies to John, or they might be enemies, secretly working against him. I loved the suspense!
I liked the silly flirtations between Marian and John. They are a couple of wild characters and their mood swings certainly keep things interesting. I also really liked that Marian is a musician. That was a pleasant surprise, and gave the reader an insight into her character. Seeing John's reaction to her music also gives us a new layer to his personality.
I didn't really like John. He is always losing his temper, shouting and screaming at people, banging his fists on the table, threatening people, grabbing the butler by the collar and throwing him down on the floor. Learn some self-control, dude. Not my idea of a hero.
The Songs of Jesus: A Year of Daily Devotions in the Psalms by Kathy Keller, Timothy Keller
This devotional book gives you a small portion of the psalms to read each day, so that you can read the entire books of Psalms in one year. Each psalm includes a prayer that you can pray and a few paragraphs explaining something about the psalm and connecting it to the New Testament.
I really liked reading the Psalms through the perspective of the New Testament, and focusing on how Jesus is the fulfillment of every Old Testament promise. This was such a comfort to read each day. It brought me a lot of encouragement throughout the year!
4.75
This devotional book gives you a small portion of the psalms to read each day, so that you can read the entire books of Psalms in one year. Each psalm includes a prayer that you can pray and a few paragraphs explaining something about the psalm and connecting it to the New Testament.
I really liked reading the Psalms through the perspective of the New Testament, and focusing on how Jesus is the fulfillment of every Old Testament promise. This was such a comfort to read each day. It brought me a lot of encouragement throughout the year!
The Hermit of Far End by Margaret Pedler
Sara is left alone when her adopted uncle dies, but she befriends his cousin, Elizabeth, and her son, Tim. Tim promptly falls in love with Sara, but she feels only friendship for him. So she goes away to make her own way in life in a small seaside town where she rents rooms in the household of the local doctor. She learns that there is a wealthy man, Garth Trent, living in a big house on the cliffs who lives the life of a hermit, never entering into the social events of the neighborhood. Curious, she walks by the estate and hears beautiful violin music coming from the house. She takes shelter in his house during a thunderstorm, and a strange friendship begins. He invites her to play duets with him, and is delighted to discover that she is an accomplished pianist. They plan a trip to a local island for a picnic, and Sara gradually encourages Garth to attend social gatherings among her friends. But the secrets of his past are haunting him, and somehow Elizabeth and Tim are connected to this dark secret that keeps Garth away from all social connection. When the war comes, all their plans are thrown into confusion, and Sara must face her worst fears.
I loved this passionate book! It's full of drama and adventure, and I stayed up way past my bedtime reading in fascination. The writing is really vivid, and everyone's emotions are so tense and fierce all the time. There are car chases, storms, bombs, and quiet sacrifices in the face of danger. There is also the constant mystery of Garth's past that is always being hinted at but never explained, until it finally blows up in their faces.
I especially liked that the romance is full of obstacles and difficulties. It's a clean romance, and both Garth and Sara have a very high sense of honor that guides all their decisions. In fact, their high integrity keeps them apart for a long time, as they are both willing to sacrifice anything to protect the other person. I really loved the intensity of their connection!
All the supporting characters are excellent as well. Every single character is complex and compelling, and it was fascinating to see how they influence each other through the story. I really liked that the writing takes the time to analyze each person's personality, so that you get to know them on a deep level, and then their actions and dialogue take on a deeper meaning.
5.0
Sara is left alone when her adopted uncle dies, but she befriends his cousin, Elizabeth, and her son, Tim. Tim promptly falls in love with Sara, but she feels only friendship for him. So she goes away to make her own way in life in a small seaside town where she rents rooms in the household of the local doctor. She learns that there is a wealthy man, Garth Trent, living in a big house on the cliffs who lives the life of a hermit, never entering into the social events of the neighborhood. Curious, she walks by the estate and hears beautiful violin music coming from the house. She takes shelter in his house during a thunderstorm, and a strange friendship begins. He invites her to play duets with him, and is delighted to discover that she is an accomplished pianist. They plan a trip to a local island for a picnic, and Sara gradually encourages Garth to attend social gatherings among her friends. But the secrets of his past are haunting him, and somehow Elizabeth and Tim are connected to this dark secret that keeps Garth away from all social connection. When the war comes, all their plans are thrown into confusion, and Sara must face her worst fears.
I loved this passionate book! It's full of drama and adventure, and I stayed up way past my bedtime reading in fascination. The writing is really vivid, and everyone's emotions are so tense and fierce all the time. There are car chases, storms, bombs, and quiet sacrifices in the face of danger. There is also the constant mystery of Garth's past that is always being hinted at but never explained, until it finally blows up in their faces.
I especially liked that the romance is full of obstacles and difficulties. It's a clean romance, and both Garth and Sara have a very high sense of honor that guides all their decisions. In fact, their high integrity keeps them apart for a long time, as they are both willing to sacrifice anything to protect the other person. I really loved the intensity of their connection!
All the supporting characters are excellent as well. Every single character is complex and compelling, and it was fascinating to see how they influence each other through the story. I really liked that the writing takes the time to analyze each person's personality, so that you get to know them on a deep level, and then their actions and dialogue take on a deeper meaning.
A Countess Below Stairs by Eva Ibbotson
Anna and her family have fled to London after the Russian Revolution and she is forced to work as a maid in order to support her ailing mother. Rupert, the Earl of Westerholme, is on his way home from serving in WWI, and the entire household is working night and day to have the house ready to receive him. He is bringing his rich fiancée, Muriel, to look over the estate and plan their wedding, but the moment he meets Anna, he feels a strong attraction to her. Anna is torn between her feelings for him and needing to hide her high-born ancestry in order to keep her job.
Everyone at the Westerholme estate hates Muriel, the earl's fiancée, because she is so prejudiced against anyone with the slightest disability or blemish. She is a devotee of the popular ideas on eugenics. This becomes a main theme in the book, and the other characters are appalled at her lack of compassion. She makes a great villain, because you really love to hate her. She's so despicable and nasty.
I loved sweet Anna! She is kind and compassionate to everyone. She has charm, grace, and courage in the midst of a very difficult life. I loved the scenes where she is confused and upset and probably suffering from culture shock. It just shows that she has strength, but she also can be vulnerable.
I liked Rupert okay. He's sort of a cookie-cutter hero character. There is one scene where he finally lets down his guard and starts laughing hysterically, and then I finally really liked him. He's incredibly stupid for most of the book though, because he puts up with that mean fiancée of his just because she has money, and from this mistaken sense of honor that he has to marry her no matter how awful she is, because he "gave his word." What an idiot.
There is a creepy uncle character who sexually harasses all the maids in the house, pinching their bottoms, kissing them, and groping them. The book treats this as if it is harmless, and even the maids say that they don't mind because "he never goes too far". Pervert uncle gets away with it. Ew.
Rupert's mother uses a Ouija board to contact the spirits, trying to contact her deceased husband and son. The other characters don't believe that she can really hear spirits, but they indulge her.
There is a little bit of mild profanity. There is also a scene where a character gets drunk and passes out, and the footmen have to drag the man back to bed to sleep it off.
I really love this author's writing style! The prose is beautiful and vivid. The story was adorable, although the plot was a little predictable.
I liked all the supporting characters too! Actually, the supporting characters had more "screen time" than the two main characters. Their romance is sort of boiling under the surface, and a lot of the focus is on how they interact with all the supporting characters.
3.0
Anna and her family have fled to London after the Russian Revolution and she is forced to work as a maid in order to support her ailing mother. Rupert, the Earl of Westerholme, is on his way home from serving in WWI, and the entire household is working night and day to have the house ready to receive him. He is bringing his rich fiancée, Muriel, to look over the estate and plan their wedding, but the moment he meets Anna, he feels a strong attraction to her. Anna is torn between her feelings for him and needing to hide her high-born ancestry in order to keep her job.
Everyone at the Westerholme estate hates Muriel, the earl's fiancée, because she is so prejudiced against anyone with the slightest disability or blemish. She is a devotee of the popular ideas on eugenics. This becomes a main theme in the book, and the other characters are appalled at her lack of compassion. She makes a great villain, because you really love to hate her. She's so despicable and nasty.
I loved sweet Anna! She is kind and compassionate to everyone. She has charm, grace, and courage in the midst of a very difficult life. I loved the scenes where she is confused and upset and probably suffering from culture shock. It just shows that she has strength, but she also can be vulnerable.
I liked Rupert okay. He's sort of a cookie-cutter hero character. There is one scene where he finally lets down his guard and starts laughing hysterically, and then I finally really liked him. He's incredibly stupid for most of the book though, because he puts up with that mean fiancée of his just because she has money, and from this mistaken sense of honor that he has to marry her no matter how awful she is, because he "gave his word." What an idiot.
There is a creepy uncle character who sexually harasses all the maids in the house, pinching their bottoms, kissing them, and groping them. The book treats this as if it is harmless, and even the maids say that they don't mind because "he never goes too far". Pervert uncle gets away with it. Ew.
Rupert's mother uses a Ouija board to contact the spirits, trying to contact her deceased husband and son. The other characters don't believe that she can really hear spirits, but they indulge her.
There is a little bit of mild profanity. There is also a scene where a character gets drunk and passes out, and the footmen have to drag the man back to bed to sleep it off.
I really love this author's writing style! The prose is beautiful and vivid. The story was adorable, although the plot was a little predictable.
I liked all the supporting characters too! Actually, the supporting characters had more "screen time" than the two main characters. Their romance is sort of boiling under the surface, and a lot of the focus is on how they interact with all the supporting characters.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Body horror, Bullying, Cursing, Antisemitism, Grief, and Sexual harassment
Minor: Racism, Sexual content, Terminal illness, Murder, Alcohol, and War
The City in the Lake by Rachel Neumeier
The Prince of the Kingdom has disappeared, and with him gone the calm magic that rules over the land has weakened. Timou is apprenticed as a mage with her father, learning the quiet slow ways of magic. Her father goes to the City to help search for the missing Prince, but he never returns to Timou's village, so Timou goes in search of him. She must confront the mysterious depths of magic in the dark forest, navigate the political unrest in the City, and discover the intensity of her own power. But lurking behind all these mysteries is the ultimate question of Timou's heritage.
I loved this book so much! I was absolutely fascinated by the characters. They are all so complex and deep. I loved Timou's journey and her character development, and all the supporting characters are just as incredible with their own inner struggles and growth.
The plot twists and winds about with surprises around every corner. Enigma after enigma is presented and explained, but that only brings up new questions and new challenges for the characters. The pacing has a perfect balance between action and more restful thoughtful moments for the characters.
The world-building is excellent with a rich history and tradition in the Kingdom. There are tons of little details that make this fantasy world truly unique and special. I loved the soft magic system. We don't really learn much about the magic; it remains mysterious. Mages know the spells and charms and secret words to say, but Timou mainly just feels things and directs the magic with her will. It's especially interesting how the magic of the Kingdom is connected to the royal family.
There are some triggers for torture by fire, and there is a scene where a baby is stillborn which is heartbreaking. There is some violence where a person is stabbed, but nothing too graphic.
I can't wait to find more books from this author! I loved the exquisite writing style. Every sentence is beautifully crafted, and the story draws you into this enchanting fantasy land.
5.0
The Prince of the Kingdom has disappeared, and with him gone the calm magic that rules over the land has weakened. Timou is apprenticed as a mage with her father, learning the quiet slow ways of magic. Her father goes to the City to help search for the missing Prince, but he never returns to Timou's village, so Timou goes in search of him. She must confront the mysterious depths of magic in the dark forest, navigate the political unrest in the City, and discover the intensity of her own power. But lurking behind all these mysteries is the ultimate question of Timou's heritage.
I loved this book so much! I was absolutely fascinated by the characters. They are all so complex and deep. I loved Timou's journey and her character development, and all the supporting characters are just as incredible with their own inner struggles and growth.
The plot twists and winds about with surprises around every corner. Enigma after enigma is presented and explained, but that only brings up new questions and new challenges for the characters. The pacing has a perfect balance between action and more restful thoughtful moments for the characters.
The world-building is excellent with a rich history and tradition in the Kingdom. There are tons of little details that make this fantasy world truly unique and special. I loved the soft magic system. We don't really learn much about the magic; it remains mysterious. Mages know the spells and charms and secret words to say, but Timou mainly just feels things and directs the magic with her will. It's especially interesting how the magic of the Kingdom is connected to the royal family.
There are some triggers for torture by fire, and there is a scene where a baby is stillborn which is heartbreaking. There is some violence where a person is stabbed, but nothing too graphic.
I can't wait to find more books from this author! I loved the exquisite writing style. Every sentence is beautifully crafted, and the story draws you into this enchanting fantasy land.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Torture
Moderate: Murder
Minor: Child death
Wonder by R.J. Palacio
Auggie starts school for the first time, worried that the other children will treat him differently because of his appearance. He has had many surgeries to correct birth defects, but his face is scarred and he just looks different from other people. The principal has asked a few of the kids in his class to befriend him, but Auggie wonders if they even like him at all. As Auggie navigates his first year of middle school, his family are also struggling to adjust. His parents worry about Auggie, and his big sister Via has mixed feelings. Together this family discover new ways to connect as Auggie and his sister grow up.
I loved this book so much! I cried through most of it, because it was so beautiful and heart-breaking. The themes are so deep and meaningful, and I found myself really inspired and uplifted.
I really liked that there are sections told from Auggie's perspective, but also sections that are told by his sister Via, his friends at school, and even Via's friends too. Those different perspectives brought so much depth to the story!
The writing draws you in from the very first page, and I read the entire book in one day, because I couldn't put it down! The writing is mesmerizing!
5.0
Auggie starts school for the first time, worried that the other children will treat him differently because of his appearance. He has had many surgeries to correct birth defects, but his face is scarred and he just looks different from other people. The principal has asked a few of the kids in his class to befriend him, but Auggie wonders if they even like him at all. As Auggie navigates his first year of middle school, his family are also struggling to adjust. His parents worry about Auggie, and his big sister Via has mixed feelings. Together this family discover new ways to connect as Auggie and his sister grow up.
I loved this book so much! I cried through most of it, because it was so beautiful and heart-breaking. The themes are so deep and meaningful, and I found myself really inspired and uplifted.
I really liked that there are sections told from Auggie's perspective, but also sections that are told by his sister Via, his friends at school, and even Via's friends too. Those different perspectives brought so much depth to the story!
The writing draws you in from the very first page, and I read the entire book in one day, because I couldn't put it down! The writing is mesmerizing!
In Aunt Lucy's Kitchen by Cynthia Rylant
This adorable book follows three cousins as they stay with their Aunt Lucy for the summer. They decide to start up a cookie company, and they meet some interesting people when they deliver the cookies. One of them is a young man who blushes every time they mention their Aunt Lucy, and they deduce that he must have a crush on her. They come up with a plan for Aunt Lucy to meet him, but they will have to get very creative if they want their plan to succeed.
This book is so cute! I loved all the fun characters. The girls all have creative pursuits- poetry, music, baking, and art. The writing is really sweet and wholesome. And I loved the adorable illustrations on each page. Such a cute story! I want to read more from this series!
5.0
This adorable book follows three cousins as they stay with their Aunt Lucy for the summer. They decide to start up a cookie company, and they meet some interesting people when they deliver the cookies. One of them is a young man who blushes every time they mention their Aunt Lucy, and they deduce that he must have a crush on her. They come up with a plan for Aunt Lucy to meet him, but they will have to get very creative if they want their plan to succeed.
This book is so cute! I loved all the fun characters. The girls all have creative pursuits- poetry, music, baking, and art. The writing is really sweet and wholesome. And I loved the adorable illustrations on each page. Such a cute story! I want to read more from this series!
The Fairy Tale Fan Club: Legendary Letters Collected by C.C. Cecily by Richard Ayoade
The Senior Secretary handles all the letters that come into the Fairy Tale Fan Club. Each letter asks a question of a famous fairy tale character, and we get to see their answers. One fan asks Rapunzel for advice about getting a haircut. Is it better to keep your hair long or cut it short?
Another fan mistakenly thinks the Little Mermaid got a happy ending, but she answers with the truth from her original fairy tale. We get to hear from Little Red Riding Hood and the Big Bad Wolf - two very different stories. Cinderella expresses sympathy for a fan who has bossy sisters. Pinocchio explains that he was never a puppet; he was a marionette. Sleeping Beauty, Rumplestiltskin, Hansel and Gretel, Jack (of beanstalk fame), Humpty Dumpty, that one shoemaker who had elves helping him, the emperor who famously bought new clothes, that one princess with the pea under the mattress, and various Prince Charming types: they all make an appearance, answering the tough questions.
This book is really hilarious and witty! I loved the funny responses from the fairy tale characters. It's always something unexpected and silly.
But sometimes the humor went a little too far, or was awkward. The emperor calls the men who sold him the invisible clothes, "asses". Not sure if that was meant to be donkeys or what.
There is a section where the author berates parents for "tricking" their children into doing their chores. That seemed really disrespectful.
There are these really weird references to killing the bossy sisters and wondering if their parents are getting a divorce. It was just out of nowhere and kind of weird.
Jack goes on this long tirade against his mother because she made him sell the cow and then got mad at him for only bringing back beans. He's really rude about it.
And there is a very awkward illustration of all the Prince Charming characters together in strange poses, one of whom is sitting awkwardly on the knee of another prince with the caption "Charmed? Not sure." Very weird.
So overall, it was fun and hilarious and I enjoyed it. Then there would be one strange line that weirded me out. Maybe this style of humor is not my cup of tea. A little too irreverent for me.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from a publisher in exchange for a free and honest review.
3.0
The Senior Secretary handles all the letters that come into the Fairy Tale Fan Club. Each letter asks a question of a famous fairy tale character, and we get to see their answers. One fan asks Rapunzel for advice about getting a haircut. Is it better to keep your hair long or cut it short?
Another fan mistakenly thinks the Little Mermaid got a happy ending, but she answers with the truth from her original fairy tale. We get to hear from Little Red Riding Hood and the Big Bad Wolf - two very different stories. Cinderella expresses sympathy for a fan who has bossy sisters. Pinocchio explains that he was never a puppet; he was a marionette. Sleeping Beauty, Rumplestiltskin, Hansel and Gretel, Jack (of beanstalk fame), Humpty Dumpty, that one shoemaker who had elves helping him, the emperor who famously bought new clothes, that one princess with the pea under the mattress, and various Prince Charming types: they all make an appearance, answering the tough questions.
This book is really hilarious and witty! I loved the funny responses from the fairy tale characters. It's always something unexpected and silly.
But sometimes the humor went a little too far, or was awkward. The emperor calls the men who sold him the invisible clothes, "asses". Not sure if that was meant to be donkeys or what.
There is a section where the author berates parents for "tricking" their children into doing their chores. That seemed really disrespectful.
There are these really weird references to killing the bossy sisters and wondering if their parents are getting a divorce. It was just out of nowhere and kind of weird.
Jack goes on this long tirade against his mother because she made him sell the cow and then got mad at him for only bringing back beans. He's really rude about it.
And there is a very awkward illustration of all the Prince Charming characters together in strange poses, one of whom is sitting awkwardly on the knee of another prince with the caption "Charmed? Not sure." Very weird.
So overall, it was fun and hilarious and I enjoyed it. Then there would be one strange line that weirded me out. Maybe this style of humor is not my cup of tea. A little too irreverent for me.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from a publisher in exchange for a free and honest review.