Book Review: ‘Everything’s Fine,’ by Cecilia Rabess – The New York Times

In Cecilia Rabess’s novel, “Everything’s Fine,” a woman considers how to stay true to herself after she falls in love with her ideological antithesis and begins working in an industry she doubts.
— Read on www.nytimes.com/2023/06/06/books/review/everythings-fine-cecilia-rabess.html

Prepare for: Monsters at Christmas

#MonstersatChristmas #NetGalley

It may be hot and sticky now but the holiday season will come. Who better for a young one to spend it with than these cute critters? Here is a book that will delight children. It is filled with intricate illustrations and rhyming text. For extra entertainment, kids can search for monster Santa in every two page spread.

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

Pub date: 05 September 2023

Wish it were mine: The Cottage Garden (by Claus Dalby)

#TheCottageGarden #NetGalley

This is such a lovely book. It offered me a perfect escape from my life as I looked at absolutely gorgeous photos as I whiled away some time. By the way, the text included in each two page spread is also quite informative. Some of my favorite entries were on Gertrude Jekyll, Vita Sackville-West and Tasha Tudor. I also liked the ones entitled Childhood Memories, The Mother Daughter Garden and, A Special Harmony. That said, wherever a reader looks they will find respite and enjoyment as they visit England Germany, Sweden, Denmark and the U.S.

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

Pub date: 05 September 2023

Stay My Baby

#StayMyBaby #NetGalley

This book is just so sweet! The photos of adults and children together will likely make adults smile, while young children will enjoy seeing others their size in these pages. The simple rhyming text assures children how much they are wanted and loved. All in all, a delightful book for the littlest ones and their grownups.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Orca Book Publishers. All opinions are my own.

Pub date: 12 September 2023

Watch as: Rosie Runs

#RosieRuns #NetGalley

I feel a bit mixed about this title. It is based on a true story, the details of which are found in the book’s introduction. If this part of the book is shared with young children, it needs to be discussed as it includes information about an animal’s mistreatment…but also eventually a happier life.

The book itself is based on this true story. It is illustrated in an appealingly child-like style. Readers/listeners watch as Rosie escapes the track where she races, as she looks for freedom and a better life (definitely some metaphor there!). Will she find what she hopes for? Kids will travel on her adventure and find out. Again, issues of kindness and how people treat animals (both good and bad) may come up as talking points when sharing this book.

One thing is for sure…Rosie’s real life rescuer loved her.

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

Pub date: 15 August 2023