Author: joycesmysteryandfictionbookreviews

I love to read, recommend books and open the world of reading to others. I tutor to ensure that the next generation of readers will know the joys of a good book because their reading skills have improved. I am an avid reader, especially of mysteries and fiction. I believe that two of the world's greatest inventions were the public library and eyeglasses!

They’ll help you to dream: Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls: 100 Inspiring Young Changemakers

by Rebel Girls

#RebelChangemaker #NetGalley

I have been a big fan of the Rebel Girls books for a while. Along with the Little People, Big Dreams series they offer kids a look at what others have done. Hopefully this both helps to appreciate those who have come before and to motivate kids to believe in themselves and their aspirations.

This collection includes stories of 100 young changemakers following a foreword by Bindi Irwin and an introduction. How wonderful that there are 100 people who are inspiring. Each entry includes biographical information and illustrations. Here are everyone from a swimmer to a musician to a singer/songwriter, to a scientist and inventor, a soccer player, a sailor, a painter, a blacksmith and more. So, yes, there is a strong message that girls can aspire and do!

This book belongs on both family and school bookshelves. Its wide scope is just terrific.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Rebel Girls for this title. All opinions are my own.

Pub date: 04 October 2022

Find out what: A Person Can Be

by Kerri Kokias

This book offers children a perspective that they may not have fully developed. It is sweetly illustrated and shows a number of dualities that a child may experience. A few examples…Busy and Bored, Homesick and Adventurous, or Brave and Afraid. Looking at this book with an adult may well open up some good conversation with a child you know.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Kids Can press. All opinions are my own.

Pub date: 04 October 2022

Really: Thank You for Listening

A Novel

by Julia Whelan

#ThankYouforListening #NetGalley

Sewanee has not had an easy time of it. As the novel opens she is on a plane where a few embarrassing things happen. One of these is that a four year old repeatedly quizzes Sewanee about her eye patch. The author skewers a certain school of parenting in the scenes that follow. This is indicative of the tone of this novel.

Sewanee is on her way to Las Vegas where she will attend a book convention and also meet up with her closest friend Adaku, an actress. Sewanee has stopped acting and is now an audio book narrator. The book that she listens to in the beginning of the story is also satirized.

What happens as the story advances will include changes for Sewanee. This arc begins with a one night stand. Readers will hope that she gets her happy ending.

Author Whelan has narrated audio books herself which adds authenticity to the narrative. That said, I wanted to like this book more than I actually did. It took me awhile to feel immersed in the story. I feel in the minority as Taylor Jenkins Reed, Emily Henry and Jodi Picoult, all authors I very much like, have endorsed this one.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Avon and Harper Voyager for this title. All opinions are my own.

Pub date: 02 August 2022