Joyce's mystery and fiction book reviews with some non-fiction too!

newspaper.mailplus.co.uk/data/2921/reader/reader.html

www.nytimes.com/2023/08/09/books/barbara-kingsolver-appalachia-books.html

Four stars ****

I was not familiar with poet, Peppernell, before reading this collection, so I had no idea what to expect. I hoped from the cover that there was some kind of magic inside.

What I did find within these pages was an author who felt honest in the feelings, struggles and emotions that make up the text. There were also additional illustrations to be found.

Anyone who has experienced emotions similar to the poet’s will, I think, feel understood in these pages. Dip into any sections that appeals; these include Reflecting, Repairing, Change, Awakening, Emerging, and Rebirth. It is a story of a journey.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Andrews McMeel Publishing for this title. All opinions are my own.

From the Publisher

Discover what it truly means to be free in this new introspective poetry collection from author Courtney Peppernell.

Presented in six captivating sections—Reflecting, Repairing, Change, Awakening, Emerging, and Rebirth—Time Will Tell tells the story of a curious, lost soul who crashed down to Earth on the search for purpose.

#TheCompleteBookofBirthdaysGiftEdition #NetGalley

This title begins with a deep explanation of the principles of astrology. I suspect that many readers will, however, quickly turn to their own birth date or to those of the significant people in their lives. Readers will, undoubtedly, look to see how the descriptions accord with their own senses of self or others. It can be an interesting pursuit and one that could lead to great popularity for this book.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Quarto Publishing Group for this title. All opinions are my own.

Pub date: 19 September 2023

#TheFearsYouFear #NetGalley

This book will be welcomed by adults and the young kids in their lives. It offers a way to open up discussion about fears in an age appropriate way.

The author shows children that fears are universal and yet different for different children. Acknowledging them and finding ways to cope will serve young people well.

This nicely illustrated title will help children to talk about their worries. This is pretty certain to be helpful.

In addition, there is a section for adults at the end of the book. It offers a good explanation of kids’ fears and how to help them in coping.

Many thanks to NetGalley and the American Psychological Association/Magination Press for this title. All opinions are my own.

Pub date: 06 September 2023

This one got a fair amount of press in England.

Four new paperbacks — the dysfunctional families who rule the world

https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/af3caa26-377b-11ee-8810-d3022cd752ba?shareToken=fb1ad13d842e95cdb765f9f24351f282

Though Glasgow’s rates of homicide and violent crime are mild compared to many American or African cities, the city has long had a reputation as the “murder
— Read on greatbritishbookclub.com/gritty-crime-novels-set-in-glasgow-scotland/

#DavyintheSnow #NetGalley

Children’s fairy tales often include a challenge that must be overcome before the happy ending comes. That is the case in this story about Davy and Mia.

These two young rabbits feel ready for independence so they volunteer to bring carrot cake to their grandparents. They have a nice visit and, fortuitously, hear a story about what their grandparents did in a big snowstorm.

Of course, this is the obstacle that Davy and Mia then face. They know what to do, Davy is an excellent big brother and all ends well.

The illustrations in this story are very appealing. Both children and adults will enjoy them. The message of the story is not to panic, to trust oneself and be hopeful is a good one.

Many thanks to NorthSouth Books and NetGalley for this title. All opinions are my own.

Pub date: 12 September 2023