A Quick Review of What You Forgot You Knew

by Rod Mebane

Pub Date 03 Aug 2021

I am one of those people who care about grammar. Lately, my pet peeve has been that everyone from Prince Harry on down is using the words me and I incorrectly. So, I was excited to see this ARC on grammar, nerdy though that may be. And, yes, attention is given to that very topic in one of the book’s sections.

This title is densely packed with information. Readers who want to learn more about grammar or those who want some tricky questions answered will both find answers within.

Grammar is described by the author as the principles that guide how words work together. If a reader wants to speak or write more effectively, the rules and practices described in this book will be most helpful.

Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions are my own

Dinosaurs Before Dark Graphic Novel

by Mary Pope Osborne

The Magic Tree House series has been loved by many beginning readers who have eagerly followed the adventures of Jack and Annie. Ever since the tree house first appeared and whisked the two back to prehistoric times, Jack and Annie have been learning and doing. Now, in a new twist on an old theme, the books have gone graphic. First, to come, is Dinosaurs Before Dark, a title certain to be enjoyed in its new format.

So, have a child you know, sit back, spend time with Jack and Annie, explore the wonderful illustrations and…become an enthusiastic reader.

Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this title. All opinions are my own.

From the publisher:

by Nikolas Ilic

#Animal123 #NetGalley

Pub Date 20 Jul 2021

This book offers vivid, amusing animals and a colorful background for each page. Adults will probably enjoy this counting book, that covers the numbers one to twelve, as much as the children with whom they share it.

Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions are my own.

Recipe for a Perfect Wife” A Novel by Karma Brown

by joycesmysteryandfictionbookreviewsFebruary 11, 2020

This is the first book that I have read by Karma Brown; it was certainly interesting and surprising. The novel tells the stories of two marriages and one house in suburban Westchester, New York.

In the present day, Alice has met her husband in a cute way in Central Park and subsequently married.  Her life is complicated (no spoilers so I won’t say why) which leads to her reluctantly moving to the suburbs with her seemingly perfect husband Nate.  In the earlier time line the story of Nellie, who is married to Richard, is told.  The expectations for her are clear but how will Nellie deal with them?

Each chapter begins with either a recipe from the 50s or a quote from a marriage journal.  There are also many references to 1950s Ladies Home Journal issues.  These definitely enhanced the story.

The book raises questions about the nature of marriage and the roles between women and men.  To what extent should a wife strive to be the person her husband wants/ needs?  What if the husband is not at all perfect?  How far should a woman go to feel free? What do older women have to teach those younger?  How important is it to have children? How can one be a friend?  How important is it to follow social mores? How much should one lie (if at all) in a marriage? What does it mean to live in the  suburbs or the city?

At times I did not “like” some of the characters in this book, yet I commend the author for eliciting responses from me.  This book is NOT a lighthearted send up of the 50s or of romantic love.  It may, though, raise questions for the reader, making it a good book club choice.

Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this title in exchange for an honest review.

#RecipeForAperfectWife #NetGalley

What Do You See? A Book Full of Words and Pictures

by Anita Bijsterbosch

#ClavisPublishing #NetGalley

This picture book for the youngest children has the most adorable and appealing illustrations. Many titles have been published for young children in which they can learn the names of objects; in my opinion this is one of the cutest. Each two page spread features many things to name and find. For example, children are invited to see things in the bedroom, the kitchen, in the garden and more. They are also invited to look at animals and vehicles. Think about purchasing this one for a young child that you know; you will both enjoy it.

Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions are my own.

by Emmeline Duncan

#FreshBrewedMurder #NetGalley

Are you a reader who enjoys cozy mysteries? Do you find Portland, Oregon to be an interesting city? And, do you like coffee? If yes, this title may just percolate (sorry for the pun) for you.

The protagonist is engaging and will be back as this is the first entry in a new series. Why was someone left murdered in front of Sage’s coffee cart, the cleverly named Ground Rules? Read this one to find out. It is an easy and fun read.

Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this title. All opinions are my own.

A FEW COMMENTS: I LOVED THE LITTLE PARIS BOOKSHOP. CRANFORD IS FREE. THE WIDOWS OF MALABAR HILL IS THE FIRST OF THREE BOOKS IN SUJATA MASSEY’S NEW SERIES.

by joycesmysteryandfictionbookreviewsSeptember 2, 2018

I adored The Little Paris Bookshop with its story of how one can become isolated and yet have a richer and more meaningful life when moving beyond that unsatisfying safety. This is truly a beautiful and satisfying read.

From Amazon: “Monsieur Perdu calls himself a literary apothecary. (INTERJECTION BY ME…WHAT COULD BE BETTER?) From his floating bookstore in a barge on the Seine, he prescribes novels for the hardships of life. Using his intuitive feel for the exact book a reader needs, Perdu mends broken hearts and souls. The only person he can’t seem to heal through literature is himself; he’s still haunted by heartbreak after his great love disappeared. She left him with only a letter, which he has never opened.”

Will Perdu open the letter? If he does, what will this mean to him? Find out in this lovely book.  Highest recommendation by me!!