Unfortunately I didn't finish this title through no fault of its own, but because the topics covered hit a bit too close too home for me - something that is really a testament to the brilliant storytelling of Zoe Thorogood.

I tried to finish the story by reading in smaller installments, but ultimately ended up dnf-ing the book at around the 60% mark.

'It's lonely at the center if the Earth' is well written and uses some really interesting and complex visual storytelling and does an excellent job at tackling a heavy topic in a honest and intimate way.

This is a book that I would stock in my library as I can see how it might benefit someone else, however I would give it a borrower age rating and have clear content warnings in the front.

Content Warnings

Heartstopper Volume 5 by Alice Oseman

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emotional hopeful lighthearted reflective relaxing fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? No
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.0

Content Warnings

The Cat Who Couldn't Be Bothered by Jack Kurland

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funny informative lighthearted reflective sad medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? No
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? N/A
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

This is a really charming book that addresses the subject of depression in an accessible and light-hearted way.

One of the first things I noticed was the illustrators use of colour as a story telling medium- "Greg" is black and white while all his friends are drawn in bright colours reflecting his lack of joy and enthusiasm.

My takeaway moral was that even if other people seem to be fine they may also have their struggles and that sometimes it's okay to just do nothing.

This story also has little bit of a comedic twist that ends the book on a lighter note, something that is needed in a book aimed at children.

Overall, this is a great conversation starter about feeling sad and how that can present and open up discussions on depression with smaller humans.

That's Not My Name by Megan Lally

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adventurous dark emotional hopeful mysterious sad tense fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Plot
Strong character development? No
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? N/A
Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

This book was a gripping read from the first page, with plenty of tense moments and a plot that has the reader second-guessing everything they are being told.

The book utilise dual narrators, following amnesiac Mary who feels unsure about the father she has been reunited with and prime-murder-suspect Drew who is seeking answers to clear his name in the disappearance of his girlfriend Lola.
This narrative drives the plot and introduces the reader to various clues to piece together the full picture and a couple of red-herrings along the way - all of which leading to the satisfying twist ending (and even if you are like me and guess the twist early on, reading to the conclusion is still an enjoyable experience as you will quickly get invested within the story and grow attached to the characters).

If I'm being really picky certain references, such as an early mention of Lizzo being good music taste, will likely date the book in the future (I'm thinking of the current controversy and how this might impact perceptions) however popular culture references can really help solidify some realism.

Overall, I really enjoyed this story and it's a really strong debut for Megan Lally, I look forward to seeing what she writes next!

Content Warnings

Bookshops & Bonedust by Travis Baldree

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adventurous emotional funny hopeful inspiring lighthearted reflective relaxing medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

This book holds just as much charm as Legends and Lattes, a fantastic second novel by Baldree!

When I heard that Legends and Lattes was getting a prequel I was a little apprehensive, as sometimes they don't feel true to the characters you have grown to love - However, I need not have worried; Travis Baldree seems to know Viv with the familiarity of a close friend.

Viv's characterisation rang true to what I'd imagined for her youth - Rough around the edges with a soft centre that she wants to embrace but doesn't yet have the confidence and security to do so.

The new characters we meet are also beautifully written, with loveable and unique personalities - and I promise you will fall in love with them just as quickly as Viv does.

I have enjoyed both books as Audiobooks read by Baldree, and his voice is perfect for the story. He has a quality that feels just as endearing as his characters.
I'm terms of clarity, he speaks clearly and at a good, even pace, the story is easy to follow, and character voices remain consistent throughout (as expected of an experienced narrator like Baldree).

The final pages perfectly set-up a third novel, and to say I am excited to see what's next for Viv would be an understatement!

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katiesbeengone's reviews 27 reviews

katiesbeengone's reviews
27 reviews