russellreitsema's reviews
109 reviews

Farmer Giles of Ham by J.R.R. Tolkien

adventurous funny lighthearted fast-paced

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

4.5

A lovely jaunt into farmer fantasy with Tolkiens ever present genius at the forefront. A quick, fun read ready for all ages that would make the perfect bedtime story. I have a feeling I'll be revisiting this dragon slaying comedy for years to come.

I'm Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy

emotional reflective sad medium-paced

3.25

A heartbreaking window into both the lengths parents will go to fulfill their own selfish dreams vicariously through their kids and the deep need for those kids to want to help them achieve those aspirations. A stark and riveting reminder of generational trauma and that anyone who seems too happy most likely isn't. McCurdy clearly had a story to tell and isn't afraid to bear her soul for the world. 

Pastoralia by George Saunders

funny slow-paced

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

2.75

My first Saunders book and I definitely had high hopes going in, but it was not at all what I expected, which I guess is my fault. It's a jumble of a few short stories, most notable is the first; Pastoralia, which I enjoyed by the end of it. The other shorter tales I didn't hate but also didn't love. Overall, worthwhile experience and I hope to enjoy Saunders other works more. 

The Red Badge of Courage by Stephen Crane

dark reflective tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? N/A
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.5

This book is a classic for a reason. Incredibly beautiful prose that truly drags you into the story and forces you to sit with the characters as we are all exposed to the horrors of war. At times I found it hard to follow but I'm quite sure that's on account of my own ineptitude, not the author's. Simply put, a harrowing tale of despair, violence, and what we consider honor to be. 

Funny Story by Emily Henry

emotional funny lighthearted reflective relaxing medium-paced

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

4.25

This book shook me. I had heard good things but I didn't think modern romance got this good! The plot and characters were both entrenched with layers and humor and zest, I couldn't put it down! Henry exposes her characters in a way that is more comforting than anything, reminding us readers that we aren't alone in our wild antics, our emotional scars, and our longing to belong. My first foray into Emily Henry and most assuredly not my last.

Daisy Jones & The Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid

emotional inspiring medium-paced

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

3.75

Loved travelling down such a chaotic journey with these well written, thoughtful, broken characters and witnessing this tumultuous emotional story from each of their individual perspectives.  Highly recomend for any lover of music or if you just want to bask in the glow of a beautiful book. 

The Watchers by A.M. Shine

dark mysterious tense medium-paced

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

3.0

Gripping, suspenseful, and original. Loved the unique take on an interesting idea, I found it fresh and riveting.

The Seven Year Slip by Ashley Poston

emotional lighthearted relaxing medium-paced

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

4.0

Loved this fun little romantic romp! Time travel romance are my favorite niche way to tell a good love story and I am here for it! Strong characters, believable romance, and it was fun to read. Just as predictable as any other romance but I was sucked in right away. Highly recomend. 

Every Summer After by Carley Fortune

emotional lighthearted medium-paced

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

3.5