Nasla’s Dream

by Cecile Roumiguiere, Simone Rea

#NaslasDream #NetGalley There is a time in a child’s life when they decide that they are too “grown up” for the stuffed animals that offered comfort at bedtime. Nasla has just made this declaration but…her world suddenly feels less safe. How will she get to sleep? This book with its nocturnal illustrations will answer that question. I feel that the youngest children might be a little frightened as they hear this story. Slightly older children may enjoy it though, especially if it is served with a bit of reassurance and a good night kiss! Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this title in exchange for an honest review.

Sissinghurst: The Dream Garden

by Tim Richardson

#SissinghurstTheDreamGarden #NetGalley Garden lovers will rejoice in this title about a very well known and gorgeous English garden.  After an informative forward and introduction, the book is organized according to the varied sections of the extensive plantings.  The text is interesting and the photos invite readers right in.  I very much enjoyed my armchair time in the peaceful nature of this beautiful place. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this beautiful book in exchange for an honest review.  I plan to purchase the book when it comes out so that I can enjoy it in its physical form.

Translated by Nader Khalili

by Rumi

#TheFriendshipPoemsofRumi #NetGalley

If you are not familiar with Rumi, you may want to get to know his writings. Rumi lived in the 1200s but so much of what he wrote resonates today.

In this collection, readers can find Rumi’s views on life, friendship and relationships. The book is illustrated with patterned borders, perhaps reflecting Rumi’s religious beliefs.

I recommend the writings of Rumi. It may take a minute to acclimate to his voice but readers will be left with something to ponder.

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

Marilynne Robinson is a writer who cannot be rushed and the result shows in her beautiful novels. Gilead, the first novel to feature some of the characters in this newest book, was published in 2004. That was followed by Home in 2008, Lila in 2014, and now Jack.

Jack is the “bad boy” of the novels and the one to be featured in this one. The novel follows him as he tries to live his life. In part, the novel tells the story of Jack’s complex relationship with the Black woman with whom he falls in love. Given the historical time period of the novel, readers can be sure that this will be challenging.

Readers of Ms. Robinson’s novels will undoubtedly welcome this novel. However, I think that Jack could be read and would make an impression on readers, even if they have not read the earlier books. They may well want to go back to them though.

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

Some tie ins here. Many years ago, there was a movie made from Flowers for Algernon, there was a recent Perry Mason prequel and All Creatures Great and Small will be on PBS Masterpiece. Otherwise some biography, mystery, fiction and historical fiction. Enjoy.

The Environment

Explore, create and investigate!

by Jonathan Litton

#TheEnvironment #NetGalley

This cheerfully illustrated title provides a good introduction to the environment for grade school readers. They will learn what the environment is, and then about endangered species, greenhouse gases, how to limit a carbon footprint and more. Children will also be invited to complete projects including making your own microhabitats and making a mini greenhouse. There are also some fun quizzes. This book provides a positive resource that will teach children to respect and preserve the world around them.

Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this title in exchange for an honest review. I highly recommend this engaging and thoughtful title.

In my opinion, every book here is a good one in its own way. Enjoy.