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tatiana_luz's reviews
21 reviews
A Pocketful of Crows by Joanne M. Harris
dark
emotional
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? It's complicated
5.0
The book was described ad a "Pagan fantasy/fairy tale," and it certainly beings that way. The story becomes more focused on revenge mixed with reclaiming yourself to become something greater. I think these ideas are what make they story so wonderful. The prose is amazingly poetic and immerses the reader in the whimsical and brutal world experienced by the traveling folk.
The story was confusing at times, but in the way that Pagan gods and beliefs can be elusive and confusing to outsiders. I want to read it again someday to see if I can better understand the main character's eventual role asone of the fates/Triple Moon Goddess aspects . It the cycle of revenge meant to repeat forever? Without recollection? It's an interesting question I still don't have an answer to.
The story was confusing at times, but in the way that Pagan gods and beliefs can be elusive and confusing to outsiders. I want to read it again someday to see if I can better understand the main character's eventual role as
Content Warnings
Moderate: Confinement, Death, Miscarriage, and Grief
Minor: Animal death
Every Heart a Doorway by Seanan McGuire
adventurous
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.5
A fun start to what I later realized to be a series. At first, I was a bit annoyed with the ending, but the point was that Nancy had to write her own ending and leave in order to find happiness. I actually would have liked for this to be longer so things could be better explained. Her choice at the end of the novel seemed somewhat abrupt given the relationships Nancy formed with some of the students. If that had changed, it was not addressed.
I was also incredibly upset thatSumi died. Seeing as how the book was lacking in racial diversity and that this aspect of the plot line is what drew people in, the sudden change felt somewhat unnecessary. I enjoyed it enough that I would like to read the rest of the series.
I was also incredibly upset that
Content Warnings
Graphic: Transphobia and Murder
Gender: A Graphic Guide by Meg-John Barker
challenging
informative
reflective
medium-paced
5.0
A Really great primer on the history and definitions surrounding gender. It took time to analyze how toxic masculinity and the patriarchy hurts every gender, males included. Barker also goes into detail explaining how sex cannot be so easily defined either. It goes on to define what nonbinary means along with the spectrum of gender non-conformity.
A lot of names and books were mentioned, which initially felt a little off-putting, but seeing the sources listed at the end was incredibly helpful and I made some notes of it for future reference. This author also has Queer Graphic History and Sexuality, a Graphic Guide that I plan to borrow from other libraries.
A lot of names and books were mentioned, which initially felt a little off-putting, but seeing the sources listed at the end was incredibly helpful and I made some notes of it for future reference. This author also has Queer Graphic History and Sexuality, a Graphic Guide that I plan to borrow from other libraries.
Let's Talk About Love by Claire Kann
emotional
funny
inspiring
lighthearted
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
5.0
I've never read a romantic comedy or a book with an asexual protagonist. I was nervous because the book was super hyped by the asexual community and I didn't want to be left feeling disappointed.
I loved this book. It touched on a lot of fears with dating as an asexual, but Alice also had other relatable issues with family and friendships. Alice's asexuality is a huge part of who she is, but it is not the only thing. I like that the author made that clear.
The romance was silly and even cheesy at times, but it felt organic. Takumi was very kind and honest in his lack of understanding of asexuality, which I respect. The fact that they bothadmitted that they didn't know if it would work, but trying anyway, gave me hope for romance.
I loved this book. It touched on a lot of fears with dating as an asexual, but Alice also had other relatable issues with family and friendships. Alice's asexuality is a huge part of who she is, but it is not the only thing. I like that the author made that clear.
The romance was silly and even cheesy at times, but it felt organic. Takumi was very kind and honest in his lack of understanding of asexuality, which I respect. The fact that they both
Content Warnings
Graphic: Acephobia/Arophobia
Moderate: Panic attacks/disorders, Racism, and Sexual harassment
Minor: Infidelity
Ten Steps to Nanette: A Memoir Situation by Hannah Gadsby
challenging
dark
emotional
funny
reflective
medium-paced
5.0
I love Gadsby's comedy and how incredibly raw and honest it gets at times. I also love her storytelling format and voice. So, naturally, I listened to the audio book version (which she reads; 14 hrs.)
It's linear and it isn't--clear but unclear, then revealing and private. It is the story of someone who knows the story she needs to tell, for her own sake. Fans are simply lucky to learn about her journey, to find solace and strength with laughter and trivia along the way.
Her story is tied to the history she shares. In the same way, readers and listeners are tied to her story and history itself. This book is an experience in laughter and pain and everything else. It is Nanette.
It's linear and it isn't--clear but unclear, then revealing and private. It is the story of someone who knows the story she needs to tell, for her own sake. Fans are simply lucky to learn about her journey, to find solace and strength with laughter and trivia along the way.
Her story is tied to the history she shares. In the same way, readers and listeners are tied to her story and history itself. This book is an experience in laughter and pain and everything else. It is Nanette.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Homophobia, Rape, and Sexual assault
Moderate: Body shaming, Mental illness, and Suicidal thoughts
Minor: Drug use and Abortion
The Memory Librarian: And Other Stories of Dirty Computer by Janelle Monáe
challenging
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
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? It's complicated
5.0
I wish I didn't wait to read it. I ended up speeding through much of it in order to not return it to library late. I genuinely loved the book and think I may end up buying a copy. The stories were each co-written with a different author, but the entire collection still felt very cohesive. The world building was done in such a way that I didn't need to watch Dirty Computer before reading, which was nice.
It felt liberating to read characters who were unapologetically Black and queer even in a world that is so unforgiving as New Dawn. Neer was my favorite character, and "Nevermind" was a unique story that questioned what womanhood even means. "Timebox Altar(ed)" was so wonderfully hopeful and it was a great way to end the book. It even made me cry a little. Dare I say that I want this as a mini-series?
It felt liberating to read characters who were unapologetically Black and queer even in a world that is so unforgiving as New Dawn. Neer was my favorite character, and "Nevermind" was a unique story that questioned what womanhood even means. "Timebox Altar(ed)" was so wonderfully hopeful and it was a great way to end the book. It even made me cry a little. Dare I say that I want this as a mini-series?
Content Warnings
Moderate: Homophobia and Transphobia
Minor: Racism
The Witch's Hand by Nathan Page
adventurous
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
This was so good! It was Hardy Boys mixed with magic. It has mystery, humor, and drama. I really wasn't expecting the investigators to be using magic , or for it to have such an impact on the story, but I loved that aspect of the plot. I'm excited to see how Al, Pete, and Chuck's character arcs develop as the series goes on. In the meantime, I like that the volume ended in a way that allows it to feel complete as a standalone story.
I appreciated the reference to historical events too (this us set in 1969.) Connecting Pete's sexuality to his reaction to the Stonewall Riots was a net touch. Looking forward to the rest of this series.
I appreciated the reference to historical events too (this us set in 1969.) Connecting Pete's sexuality to his reaction to the Stonewall Riots was a net touch. Looking forward to the rest of this series.
Content Warnings
Minor: Child abuse and Violence
Lore Olympus: Volume One by Rachel Smythe
emotional
funny
reflective
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
I've heard so much about the web comic that I had to read this volume. I'm really glad that I did! A modern take on Greek mythology is hardly new, but Lore Olympus is done particularly well. It took on issues in modern dating while staying quite faithful to the original text. Eros' story with Psyche was one of my favorite parts. A lot of pages are purely art and no dialogue, so I feel that I'll have to read it again to fully appreciate the art style.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Rape
A Song Below Water by Bethany C. Morrow
challenging
emotional
funny
mysterious
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? It's complicated
3.5
This is the first book I've read in a while. Overall, it was a fun read. I love a modern fantasy setting. I appreciated the nuance in intersectionality of different magical being, as eloks are not feared or attacked like siren. It was a good metaphor for how white and Black women are treated differently. There is also the concept of how race plays a role in the treatment of sirens, since it only occurs to Black women.
All that said, the pacing and direction were left somewhat lacking. I thought the story would center around Tavia based on the summary, but the latter half seemed to be more about Effie, who I found to be more interesting. It's a shame, because I thought Tavia had a good plot but little time to build on it. The author, understandably, took time setting up the world but ended up sacrificing plot. Regardless, I found this to be an enjoyable read.
All that said, the pacing and direction were left somewhat lacking. I thought the story would center around Tavia based on the summary, but the latter half seemed to be more about Effie, who I found to be more interesting. It's a shame, because I thought Tavia had a good plot but little time to build on it. The author, understandably, took time setting up the world but ended up sacrificing plot. Regardless, I found this to be an enjoyable read.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Racism and Police brutality
Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury
mysterious
reflective
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
2.5
The message of this book is as relevant today as it was when it was first published. The censoring of books is a very dangerous game. I also appreciate what the book did in the dystopian genre. Despite how old the book is, the setting is futuristic enough that is is believable in 2022.
Otherwise, I found the book underwhelming. The world building wasn't developed enough for me and left me with a lot of questions. Even Guy, the protagonist, feels underdeveloped and it makes him seem obnoxiously virtuous. The metaphor made by describing how white and pure Clarisse was is awkward to read. She and Mildred had no development of their own, and existed solely for Guy's own plot, which was disappointing.
I'm happy that I finally got around to reading the literary classic but don't think I will read it again.
Otherwise, I found the book underwhelming. The world building wasn't developed enough for me and left me with a lot of questions. Even Guy, the protagonist, feels underdeveloped and it makes him seem obnoxiously virtuous. The metaphor made by describing how white and pure Clarisse was is awkward to read. She and Mildred had no development of their own, and existed solely for Guy's own plot, which was disappointing.
I'm happy that I finally got around to reading the literary classic but don't think I will read it again.