mikaylay's reviews
125 reviews

The Brilliant Fall of Gianna Z. by Kate Messner

adventurous emotional informative medium-paced

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

4.5

The characters in this book are vivid and leap off the pages with their distinct personalities and traits. They are well-developed, each showcasing an important learning experience and connection that I believe young readers will be able to feel and relate to. Gianna Z is a realistic and highly artistic character who expresses her love for art, family, learning, and struggles in a way that allows readers to connect and explore these challenges and passions alongside her as the story unfolds. The writing is vivid, imaginative, and realistic, immersing the reader in the book's autumnal setting, learning valuable lessons with each falling leaf. The plot is well-developed and engaging, although some character decisions, like Gianna not confiding in an adult about a classmate sabotaging her leaf project, may raise questions. The book tackles themes of bullying, procrastination, school projects, Alzheimer's, and varied approaches to learning and difficult subjects adeptly. What particularly appealed to me about this book were the realistic elements woven throughout, from Gianna's procrastination on her project to her unique approach to completing it, her grandmother's handling of memory loss, the friendship between Gianna and Zig, the differing parenting styles of Gianna's parents, and the vivid artistic imagery portrayed through Gianna's artwork and Ian's photography. The leaf project adds an intriguing and artistic learning dimension to the story, especially when Zig and Gianna assign tree personalities to people they know and the various ways Gianna and her classmates infuse the project with their individual touches. "The Brilliant Fall of Gianna Z" is a compelling middle-grade novel for readers seeking a story that addresses themes of bullying, procrastination, family challenges, friendship, and the journey of embracing one's personality and traits, much like Gianna does through her art. 

Lips Like Sugar by Jess K. Hardy

funny hopeful lighthearted medium-paced

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

4.5

 The cover is vibrant, well-executed, and accurately represents the characters, setting, and storyline. The story includes elements of humor, realism, romance, sadness, and introspection, evoking a range of emotions and connection with the characters. The characters are relatable, endearing, and fully fleshed out, creating a sense of being right alongside them on their journey. Mira, a diligent single mother and caring daughter, resonates with her strong work ethic, family love, creativity, and witty humor. Cole, a loving father and friend with a passion for music, charms readers as he interacts with Mira. The supporting characters from Mira and Cole's families contribute humor and distinct personalities, adding a light-hearted touch to the narrative despite the serious themes. The plot is beautifully crafted, well-developed, engaging, sweet, and realistic. The writing is exquisite, realistic, and imaginative, allowing readers to connect with the characters and the story's world. The characters, events, and plot captivate from the beginning, leaving a desire to read it all in one sitting. 

The humor in the book is skillfully executed, providing a welcome relief during challenging moments and helping readers connect with the characters through laughter. The story offers relatable experiences, such as parental dynamics shifting as teenagers grow, concerns for loved ones' well-being, struggles with addiction recovery, choosing familiarity over new love that pushes personal growth, and the significance of effective communication in relationships. The affection Cole shows for his granddaughter and daughter, as well as the bond he forms with the men from Little Timber, is heartwarming. Mira's evolving relationship with her mother, who is losing her memories, is both poignant and inspiring as they learn about each other and themselves over time. The progression of Mira and Cole's romance is depicted realistically, blending humor and heartbreak as they support each other through life's challenges and uncertainties, grappling with the decision to pursue love and embrace change. While the romance takes a passionate turn, earning a mature rating, it enriches the story and characters rather than detracting from them, adding depth to the narrative.

Lips Like Sugar by Jess K. Hardy is a wonderfully crafted novel that delves into themes of family, friendship, effective communication, embracing life's ups and downs, cherishing present memories, and the importance of self-care and opening up to love once more. This book is suggested for those seeking a delightful, witty, and heartwarming contemporary romance featuring mature protagonists, lively family dynamics, friendly banter among companions, and more. 

The Blanket Cats by Kiyoshi Shigematsu

dark emotional sad tense slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? N/A
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A

2.0

 

A collection of short stories titled The Blanket Cats delves into the intricate struggles faced by both humans and felines across various stages of life. Within its pages, some characters may come across as distant and underdeveloped, while others captivate the reader with their depth and complexity. The cats within the stories often embody the essence of underdogs, overshadowed by the human characters and their intricate dilemmas. The narrative, although at times unclear, attempts to navigate through challenging themes, yet the visualization of the settings and atmosphere remains elusive.

Throughout the book, the author bravely tackles tough subjects such as infertility, grief, loneliness, bullying, and memory loss. While the intention is to shed light on these sensitive topics, the execution may fall short, leaving the reader feeling uneasy. For instance, a story addressing bullying raises awareness about its detrimental effects on adolescents, yet fails to provide a satisfying resolution to the underlying issues.

The potential for The Blanket Cats to evolve into a remarkable collection of short stories is evident. With meticulous attention to detail, each narrative could be enriched with resolutions that not only confront the challenges presented but also contribute to character growth and story cohesion. By refining the storytelling and addressing the complexities within each tale, the collection could truly shine as a cohesive and impactful work of literature. 

Thank you to Netgalley, author, and publisher for an E-ARC of this in exchange for an honest review. 

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Content Warnings

Minor: Animal cruelty, Bullying, Infertility, Violence, Grief, Suicide attempt

A Duet for Home by Karina Yan Glaser

adventurous informative medium-paced

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

3.5

Rating: 3.5 

The book features a diverse range of characters that are well-developed and unique in their characteristics and personalities, making it a refreshing and interesting read. It feels like immersing oneself in a community event and getting to know these fascinating individuals on various levels, gaining an outward perspective on their lives. The main characters, June and Tyrell, are relatable figures for children due to their distinct qualities. June's passion for music, her sense of responsibility towards her family, and her hardworking nature are admirable, while Tyrell's struggles with his mother, his efforts to maintain positivity at the Huey House, his loyalty to his friend Jeremiah, and his aspirations that he hesitates to express for fear of disappointment, all add depth to the story. The descriptive and immersive writing style allows readers to step into the characters' shoes. While the plot was well-developed, it may have dragged a bit, impacting the level of intrigue. Nonetheless, the overall plot was sensible, engaging, and informative. The book delves into important themes such as homelessness, homeless shelters, government policies, adapting to change, friendship, grief, and finding positivity in challenging situations. It is recommended for those interested in gaining insights into life within homeless shelters.

Remember, sometimes, home is not a place but a feeling.

The Tenant by Victoria T.

mysterious medium-paced

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

4.5

 The characters are beautifully defined and developed, allowing readers to visualize them. I felt for the characters in a variety of ways and could relate to the feelings they expressed and felt throughout the novel. The book's atmosphere and tones were appropriate for what was going on and contributed to the novel's development. The surroundings were nicely portrayed, although there were one or two instances where the environment could have been more descriptive in order to fully immerse the reader in the novel's universe. The text was easy to read, descriptive, well-written, and imaginative at times. I will add that the writing can be repetitive and appear monotonous at first, but after finishing the book, I believe the author could have written it that way to better portray the characters' thoughts and events at the beginning of the novel. The plot was well-written and developed, with the author doing a good job of providing background and buildup before moving on to the tale's peak and resolution. The storyline twists in the book may be predictable if one pays close attention, as the author offers clues for readers to follow - I thought this was a good touch because it allows readers to play detective in a way, making the book feel immersive and inclusive. I think the plot twists were well-planned, logical, and enjoyable to read. I struggled to get into the book at first since the pacing was a little slow, but it caught up at page 70 and soared with pace, intrigue, and mystery, which I am sure will keep mystery fans interested until the conclusion. The novel teaches various lessons about respect, honest communication, familial relationships, trust, loving someone, and how one's life may be changed by a single occurrence. I appreciated this author's debut novel and look forward to seeing and reading their future works. I'd also like to mention that, while this book is a standalone, I could see it having a sequel, but I can't tell why or how since I don't want to spoil the ending.

I would recommend this book to anyone who appreciates short mysteries that allow the reader to nearly play detective while reading. 

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Content Warnings

Minor: Death, Injury/Injury detail

The Hidden Kingdom by Tui T. Sutherland

adventurous funny mysterious relaxing medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.5

 The book's characters were all well-developed, but additional information and time spent with each of them would have allowed the reader to connect with the characters more effectively. I appreciated reading from Glory's perspective and getting to know her beyond the lazy rainwing cliché imposed by the Talons of Peace. Glory is a terrific character, and I thought this book did an excellent job of letting readers to discover more about her beyond the lazy stereotype and truly identify with her in her feelings about the dragonet prophecy, her kidnapping as a baby dragon, and her tribe. The landscape was descriptive, inventive, and realistic in that it had precise and distinct vegetation, fruits, and animals. The writing was immersive, thorough, and overall interesting and expressive, despite a few cringe-worthy word choices. The plot was exciting, with the added mystery of who was killing the mudwings and rainwings, and it gave more development for the dragonets of destiny and their new pals. It also allowed Glory to step outdoors and even break the image of a lazy dragon. The most important and engaging aspect of this book and plotline was Glory and her rainwing tribe from her first encounter with them, almost believing that the stereotype about them is true, discovering more about her tribe than she imagined, and finally learning about herself in her abilities, family, and love for both her fellow dragonets and her tribe as a whole. The narrative surprise twist was somewhat obvious, but it brought a good amount of mystery, tension, and excitement to the story. I was immediately intrigued from the beginning of this book, and I believe it has a lot to do with the connections I have with the characters, who are all approachable and realistic in their own ways. This book contains valuable lessons such as thinking before acting, caring for others, accepting your abilities and qualities, and acknowledging the differences but also the connections one can have with both blood and adopted families. Overall, the book was a good addition to the Wings of Fire series, allowing readers to connect with and learn alongside Glory in an immersive world replete with conflicts, dragons, secrets, and even a prophecy, despite a few cringe-worthy word choices and a semi-predictable plot twist. I enjoyed this one less than the first two, but I am looking forward to continuing with the series and experiencing the many points of view from each of the Dragonets of Destiny. The next book is told from Starflight's point of view, and I can't wait to read it, learn more about the nightwings, and discover where this small dragonet family goes next. 

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Content Warnings

Minor: Death, Violence, Kidnapping, War, Injury/Injury detail

Make Me a Mixtape by Jennifer Whiteford

emotional funny hopeful inspiring medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

 

The cover of the book immediately grabs the reader's attention with its vibrant colors and inviting atmosphere, setting the scene for a delightful fall day and accurately reflecting the storyline. The characters are well-developed, each possessing unique traits. The interactions between the main characters, Ryan and Allie, and the rest of the cast are skillfully crafted, adding a realistic and cozy feel to the narrative. The author employs compelling comparisons throughout the book, allowing readers to connect with the characters' emotions and circumstances. For instance, the analogy of letting go of one's passion like a balloon slipping from its string beautifully illustrates how things we cherish can sometimes drift away unexpectedly. The mutual support Ryan and Allie offer each other in confronting their pasts is commendable. Ryan's endearing friendship with his roommate Anisha exudes a sense of lifelong camaraderie. A charming detail in the book includes cassette tapes labeled with Allie's cover album project songs, indicating the current timeline and hinting at what may unfold in the upcoming sections. While the romance is well-executed, there are moments of ambiguity in the characters' feelings, particularly with Ryan's evolving emotions towards Allie. Including Ryan's perspective intermittently could have provided a clearer insight into his sentiments and reduced confusion for readers. The narrative features a couple of spicy scenes that, although well-written, may elicit some cringeworthy reactions. Allie's enduring affection for her former bandmates underscores the deep bond they share, despite the band's dissolution. The author adeptly captures the essence of Brooklyn, New York, transforming it into a cozy and inviting setting reminiscent of a small, welcoming town. The writing style is engaging, vivid, and immersive, evoking a sense of watching a heartwarming Christmas movie about friendship, self-discovery, and family. While the plot encounters minor obstacles due to miscommunications, it remains captivating and well-structured. Although it took some time to fully engage with the story initially, the book eventually becomes engrossing, making it difficult to put down. The book maintains a logical timeline, plot progression, and character development, offering valuable lessons on self-discovery, pursuing passions, fostering new relationships, effective communication, and the warmth of community and family. Despite occasional uncertainties regarding Ryan's feelings for Allie and a slow start, the overall narrative, characters, and cozy small-town ambiance make for an enjoyable read. "Make Me A Mixtape" by Jennifer Whiteford is a heartwarming romance that transports readers to Mindy's Cafe, where they can immerse themselves in the lives of the characters, enjoy music, and perhaps create their own mixtape. This book is recommended for those seeking a romance enriched with strong friendships, music and pop culture references, self-discovery themes, and the courage to confront the past. 

 

Thank You to Netgalley, author, and publisher for sending me a digital e-arc of this book in exchange for an honest review. 

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Content Warnings

Minor: Death of parent, Abandonment

The Heir of Achilles by Patrick Garvey

adventurous challenging informative mysterious reflective tense medium-paced

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

4.0

The cover of the book immediately captures the attention with its vibrant colors and intricate design, setting the tone for the mysterious and tension-filled story that lies within its pages. Through the characters of Noa, Matías, and Ian, the reader is introduced to a trio of individuals who each bring their own unique qualities to the narrative. Noa's wit, Matías' determination, and Ian's intelligence create a dynamic interplay that keeps the reader engaged throughout the story. While the character development is commendable, some readers may find themselves wanting more depth and progression in the characters' arcs. However, the vivid descriptions of the atmosphere and settings help to immerse the reader in the world of the story, making them feel as though they are traveling alongside the main characters as they navigate through different locations and challenges. The writing style is both informative and imaginative, blending elements of mystery, fantasy, and thriller seamlessly. Author Patrick Garvey's unique plot not only entertains but also educates, as he expertly weaves together elements of nonfiction and fiction, providing a list of sources for readers who wish to delve deeper into the historical and mythological aspects of the story. The narrative prompts reflection on the legendary tales of Achilles, his armor, and his connections to Alexander the Great, exploring the potential supernatural influences that impact the characters both mentally and physically. This thought-provoking exploration adds an extra layer of depth to the story, inviting readers to ponder the mysteries of Snake Island and the enigmatic legend of Achilles and his armor. The book concludes the plot effectively, yet it also provides an opportunity for the author, Patrick Garvey, to create another book within the same universe, either as a companion novel or a sequel. 

 

Thank You to Netgalley, author, and publisher for sending me a digital e-arc of this book in exchange for an honest review. 

The Raven Boys by Maggie Stiefvater

adventurous emotional funny hopeful mysterious medium-paced

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

5.0

The cover of the book not only serves as an eye-catching visual but also acts as a symbolic gateway into the intricate world crafted by Maggie Stiefvater. It sets the tone for the story's essence, inviting readers to delve into a narrative filled with mystery, magic, and profound character dynamics. Each character in the book is meticulously developed, with layers of complexity that add depth to the overall plot. Blue Sargent, the protagonist burdened by a prophecy, emerges as a multi-faceted individual whose journey resonates with readers on a personal level. As the story unfolds, Gansey's character undergoes a transformation that defies initial perceptions, revealing a depth of intellect, wit, and determination that surprises both the characters within the narrative and the readers themselves. Adam Parrish's struggle to break free from his past and define his own future is portrayed with sensitivity and nuance, drawing readers into his emotional journey. Noah Czerny's quiet yet impactful presence serves as a poignant reminder of the intricate bonds that tie the friend group together. Ronan Lynch's enigmatic persona adds a layer of mystery to the narrative, with his hidden pain and secrets gradually coming to light, creating a sense of intrigue and empathy among readers. The characters' flaws and vulnerabilities not only make them relatable but also contribute to the richness of their development as the series progresses. Maggie Stiefvater's masterful storytelling weaves a tapestry of vivid imagery and intricate relationships that captivate readers from the very first page. Her lyrical prose transports readers into a world where magic and reality intertwine seamlessly, blurring the lines between the known and the unknown. The interactions between Blue and the Raven Boys are portrayed with a delicate balance of camaraderie, tension, and mutual understanding, adding a layer of emotional depth to the narrative.

Throughout the book, Stiefvater skillfully plants subtle clues and details that foreshadow the unfolding events, keeping readers on the edge of their seats with unexpected twists and revelations. The seamless blend of fantasy, mystery, and coming-of-age themes creates a reading experience that is both enchanting and thought-provoking, appealing to a wide range of readers seeking a unique and immersive literary journey. 

Drive by Cynthia L. Copeland

adventurous hopeful informative inspiring reflective medium-paced

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

5.0

 Thank You to Netgalley, author, and publisher for sending me a digital e-arc of this book in exchange for an honest review.

The cover of the graphic novel is beautifully illustrated, captivating, and effectively conveys the essence of the story. All the characters are intricately developed and possess unique qualities. Each character harbors a dream they aspire to achieve. By skillfully employing two distinct color schemes, the author enables readers to easily discern between the female characters, time periods, and narratives being followed. Janet Guthrie is not merely a fictional character within the narrative; she is a real-life female race driver and a 2024 NASCAR Hall of Famer. The readers gain a profound understanding of Janet Guthrie's triumphs and challenges throughout her racing career. Copeland masterfully weaves Janet's story into the graphic novel, providing readers with insight into Janet as an individual, a racer, and a trailblazer who inspires and motivates female racers and car enthusiasts. Alex, the 12-year-old aspiring to become a future car mechanic, is a relatable, inspirational, and motivational character in her own right.

The writing is so well-crafted that it leaves the reader wanting more, reluctant for the story to conclude. The author adeptly transitions between the two timelines, ensuring a seamless flow that keeps readers engaged with both female characters' narratives. The illustrations are exquisite, effectively capturing the settings, actions, and moods, immersing readers further into the story alongside the narrative. The plot is captivating, well-paced, and developed, promising to captivate young readers. The connections drawn between Janet and Alex by the author in both characters' timelines are seamlessly executed, offering rich details and establishing links between the past and present. The graphic novel delicately addresses the challenges faced by female drivers like Janet, as well as those encountered by female car enthusiasts and mechanics like Alex in contemporary times. Themes such as bullying, gender stereotypes, media and societal pressures are thoughtfully handled, providing readers with insights into these issues without detracting from the narrative or characters. As a female racing enthusiast, I found great pleasure in exploring the history of female racers and mechanics through the stories of Janet Guthrie and Alex in this graphic novel. "Drive" by Cynthia L. Copeland is a middle-grade graphic novel that adeptly intertwines the past, present, and future of female racers, car enthusiasts, and mechanics in a single narrative while effectively addressing the theme of equality within racing and car communities. It is highly recommended for fans of vibrant graphic novels featuring dual timelines, racing, cars, and the historical contributions of women who have paved the way for current and future female racers and car enthusiasts.