books.
Book Review: Outlaws of Sherwood
The Outlaws of Sherwood
by Robin McKinley
by Robin McKinley
4 out of 5 stars on GoodReads
Robin Hood retellings are always a favorite, and this one is no exception. With a new twist on each of the characters in the band of merry men, the story takes on an interesting dynamic, since Robin is actually not a very good archer, and it is Marian who is better known for her skills with the bow. Little John, Alan-a Dale, Friar Tuck, Will Scarlet, and Robin’s childhood best friend, Much, all join the Sherwood crew at different times, each with their own story and their own personality.
I love that this book is full of interesting dialogue, hidden meanings behind every glance, and characters with a depth that develops through the changing story. The tale takes so many turns, never changing the basics of the Robin Hood legend, but throwing in new and different details that give it lots of spice. Continue reading
Picture Book Review: Freedom Ship of Robert Smalls
The Freedom Ship of Robert Smalls (Young Palmetto Books)
by Louise Meriwether, Jonathan Green
by Louise Meriwether, Jonathan Green
3 out of 5 stars on GoodReads
Robert Smalls is born as a slave, but the chaos of the American Civil War gives him a one-in-a-million chance to escape to freedom with his family. A moving true story of how one man had the ingenuity and determination that inspired others to join him in a desperate flight towards a free life.
I loved this story! Robert Smalls was so brave and smart. He persevered through many obstacles to protect his family and friends and help them escape together. I was captivated by his touching story! Continue reading
Graphic Novel Review: Bird Boy #1-2
The Sword of Mali Mani (Bird Boy, #1)
by Anne Szabla
4 out of 5 stars on GoodReads
Bali is the smallest member of his tribe, always stumbling into trouble, unable to throw a spear in the hunts, and a general nuisance. He ventures into the darkest forest to prove himself, and discovers the hiding place of the legendary sword of Mali Mani. The evil Rooks are after the sword, and Bali must brave the dangers of the forest to keep the sword and its power from falling into their hands.
I loved the artwork in this graphic novel! There is such a contrast between the white snows of the village fields, and the lush green forest environment. There are these beautiful designs carved into everything- rocks, creatures, trees, and the masks of the tribal men. As though some ancient civilization had etched their history into every stone and plant, most surfaces are covered in intricate patterns reminiscent of the Aztecs and Mayans.
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Picture Book Review: How to Trick the Tooth Fairy
Jennifer Hansen Rolli
5 out of 5 stars on GoodReads
Kaylee is a prankster who tries to trick the Tooth Fairy, but the Tooth Fairy has a few magical tricks of her own, and the two begin a prank war with disastrous results. Can Kaylee and the Tooth Fairy put an end to their endless pranks, become friends, and clean up the mess they’ve made?
The cuteness! The adorableness! The hilarity! I fell in love with this darling book the second I saw the glittery cover art. The illustrations are utterly delightful on every page, with cute little details that bring the story to life. Continue reading
Picture Book Review: Little Orange Honey Hood
Little Orange Honey Hood: A Carolina Folktale
by Lisa Anne Cullen
by Lisa Anne Cullen
4 out of 5 stars on GoodReads
In this retelling of Little Red Riding Hood, a little girl named Blossom sets out to take a peach pie to her grandmother up the river. She encounters a wily alligator, and uses all her intelligence to outsmart him.
I loved this funny retelling, with a decidedly Southern charm! I especially liked that Blossom does not rely on anyone else to save her and her grandmother, but instead she outsmarts the alligator herself. Continue reading
Book Review: A Lemon and a Star
A Lemon and a Star
by Elizabeth C. Spykman
by Elizabeth C. Spykman
4 out of 5 stars on GoodReads
The four Cares siblings run around the country side in 1907, running races, exploring the reservoirs, chasing after burglars, fighting their own private wars, and making secret trips into the city. They are constantly in trouble for dirtying their clothes, tearing their stockings, and coming home covered in mud, but they certainly have fun!
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Graphic Novel Review: A Sea of Love
A Sea of Love
by Wilfrid Lupano,Gregory Panaccione
by Wilfrid Lupano,Gregory Panaccione
5 out of 5 stars on GoodReads
A simple fishermen gets up one morning, eats breakfast with his wife, and sets out to sea hoping for a good catch. But his day does not go as planned. A massive fishing trawler almost runs him down, a storm hits his little craft, he encounters bloodthirsty pirates, and gets his propeller tangled in a fishing net. Meanwhile, his wife is distraught with worry, and decides to go looking for him, falling into adventures of her own with belligerent chefs, sleek fashionistas, and military dictators.
This story takes so many twists and turns! I loved every page. It is absolutely hilarious and fun from start to finish, and I felt such a connection with the dear fisherman and his sweet wife. It was delightful to see good and simple people, who only want a quiet life in their little village, thrown out into the world in the most ridiculous circumstances. Continue reading
Graphic Novel Review: Chimera
Chimera: Book One – The Righteous and the Lost
by Tyler Ellis
by Tyler Ellis
1 out of 5 stars on GoodReads
I was unable to read past the first few pages because of all the profanity in this graphic novel. I’m very disappointed. So I guess I can’t really write a review, because I only read 5 pages.
The colorful artwork looks beautiful, which is mainly why I wanted to read this. Too bad it looks beautiful, but the dialogue is ugly.
Disclaimer: I received an ecopy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for a free and honest review.
Classics Review: Peter Simple
Peter Simple (Heart of Oak Sea Classics Series)
by Frederick Marryat
by Frederick Marryat
4 out of 5 stars on GoodReads
Young Peter Simple is given a place aboard ship as a midshipman, and he tells us his adventures on the high seas. He distinguishes himself in battle, earning the respect and admiration of his fellow officers. He is shipwrecked, imprisoned, and somehow manages to fall in love in the middle of it all. Peter meets a variety of interesting characters all over the world, who play a part in his epic story.
The plot is full of action and intrigue, betrayal and sneaking plots, raging storms and bloody battles, and of course a little romance. I love the setting of the British frigates cruising through the West Indies looking for trouble with the French.
