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!
The little Sumo wrestlers in this cute picture book are very (!) busy. Get to know them and something about Japanese words and culture as you and a child count to ten, fifty and one hundred. There is an illustrated vocabulary section at the end of the book. This will help adults to explain the pictures to children.
Sumo Counting is an appealing book. Toddlers should enjoy it.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions are my own.
This author clearly has the background to be writing for teens. She has received a number of awards already. In addition, she is a high school English teacher so is exposed to her intended audience regularly. She has also been a teacher of the year.
This deeply moving novel for preteens and teens tells the story of Melody. What a beautiful name for a bright girl who, among other things, cannot speak. But Melody hears and absorbs and has a deep inner life that is not diminished by her physical limitations. She narrates the story and in doing so demonstrates a gorgeous ability to express herself. Early on, Melody lets readers know that music is important to her. She comments on lullabies, harmonies and a “painted musical sound track play background to my life.” Melody know that her Mom likes classical music while her father enjoys jazz. Melody, herself, likes country music. Her musical sense also seems influenced by synesthesisa. So, readers know early on that there is a sound track to Melody’s life.
Right from the start of the story, readers know that there will be a kind of disconnect between Melody’s inner world and what those around her perceive about her. Her inability to make herself known makes Melody so real. She is not always happy, can be frustrated and is in no way a martyr.
Spend time in her world, readers. You will see those around you differently by the time that you finish this luminous book. And, watch to see how Melody’s life changes by the end of the story. (no spoilers)
This title seems perfect for a book club for adults and children, for school discussion or just for a perfect read. The lessons of the story are not too heavy handed but they seem so important. Highly recommended.
#MurderwithOrangePekoeTea #NetGalley Pub Date 28 Sep 2021
For those times when only a cozy, but one with some depth, will do…Murder with Orange Pekoe Tea is the seventh entry in this series with the name of a food or a tea in the title. In this entry, Daisy is attending a fund raiser when there is a disruption. Or course there will be a murder and Daisy will be involved in its’ solution.
Amidst the mayhem some important issues are touched on. There is a plot involving a fertility clinic. There is another strand to the story about the community wanting to build a shelter for those in need.
Read the book to find out how the plot strands come together and how the case is solved. As a bonus, enjoy the recipes that are also included.
I enjoyed the characters in this book. I also liked the Amish Country setting. Both are well portrayed.
This was the first in the series that I read. I am pretty sure that I will go back and spend time with some of the earlier entries.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions are my own.
Andrew Morton is, of course, famous for writing THAT book about Princess Diana. He definitely has found his place as a chronicler of the lives of British royalty. This time, he turns his eyes to the famous siblings, Elizabeth and Margaret. Royal watchers and watchers of The Crown will no doubt very much enjoy this title. It chronicles the princesses from their early family life and right on through the ways in which the sisters’ paths diverged. Readers will also, no doubt, enjoy the many photos in this book. They include a copy of a letter written to the PM by Margaret, detailing her relationship with Peter Townsend.
This book will definitely appeal to its intended audience. Give it a look if you are one of them.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this title. All opinions are my own.
Joyce's mystery and fiction book reviews with some non-fiction too! 