russellreitsema's reviews
109 reviews

The Midnight Library by Matt Haig

4.0

I instantly fell in love with the writing style and could not put this down. A simple idea executed beautifully. 

Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge, and the Teachings of Plants by Robin Wall Kimmerer

4.0

I can feel the emotion, the passion, the knowledge, and the peace as I read this book. 

The Southern Book Club's Guide to Slaying Vampires by Grady Hendrix

3.5

Recommended by a friend, I was hesitant to step back in to the horror genre. That was foolish of me. Hendrix is clearly a master at his craft and simultaneously balances the grotesque and the whimsically humorous to create a surreal story of vampires, housewives, and so much more. I'll be sure to continue to follow this author closely. 

When the Earth Was Green: Plants, Animals, and Evolution's Greatest Romance by Riley Black

3.5

A lovely journey through early earth from the eyes of various lifeforms, learning as we go. I feel satisfied and I gained a new perspective on ancient animals. 

Crown of Midnight by Sarah J. Maas

3.0

An interesting second installment in a series I was hesitant to read. I enjoyed the plot lines and the groan worthy ending. the romance felt forced but I'm along for the ride now! 

The Night of Baba Yaga by Akira Otani

2.0

This entire audiobook felt like a fugue state. not sure what I read but won't be reading it again. strange subject matter and a not so compelling narrative. 

Right Thing, Right Now: Good Values. Good Character. Good Deeds. by Ryan Holiday

3.5

not my favorite of the series, but the author suggests that this is a common theme. Anything from Holiday brings with it the brass tacks philosophy that more people need to ruminate on in this world. You'll never regret reading this. 

How to Share an Egg: A True Story of Hunger, Love, and Plenty by Bonny Reichert

3.0

A powerful story of one woman's connection to her family, her history, and the food that bound them together. 

The 5 Types of Wealth by Sahil Bloom

4.0

At first I thought this was going to be another bland billionaire book on how to really "appreciate" my life and that money shouldn't matter. I was mistaken. Those themes do run through the book but Bloom also provides brass tacks guidance and tools to combat time waste and provides insight into basic investment and strategy. I've heard(or read) a lot of it before, but there are some refreshing anecdotes mixed in and it's a great beginner read to get people motivated to change. 

The Virgin Suicides by Jeffrey Eugenides

3.25

I absolutely see how this became a modern classic in its poetic romantisization of suburban life and that strange unexplainable coming of age element that hold us all together like a glue trap. Well written and a devastating read for the subject matter, this one felt a little aloof for me but will still recomend.