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

by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara

This is an excellent addition to the Little People, Big Dreams series. The story of Einstein is told with a sense of humanity and with admiration for this renowned scientist and man.

Readers learn that young Einstein took time to develop; he did not speak until well past the expected time. His mind worked in its own way but led him to revolutionary scientific discoveries.

This book also highlights Einstein’s humanitarian efforts. He was able to emigrate from Germany when the Nazis came to power but did not stop there. He encouraged American universities to hire other Jewish scientists so that they would not die. Einstein also cared about other forms of discrimination in his new country.

The illustrations in this title perfectly accent the story. There are also additional resources at the end of the book.

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

Death at Greenway is a traditional, historical mystery set during WWII. It takes place at a home of Agatha Christie’s, although the renowned author is only briefly seen in these pages. Nonetheless, her home has been opened to children who have left London (without their families) in order to be kept safe during the conflict.

Protagonist Bridget was working as a trainee nurse, a position that she loved, until something went disastrously wrong. Now, early in the novel, she is making believe that she is a fully trained nurse and is in charge of ten evacuees. Along with her, other adults included the not so hard working Gigi, and Mrs. Arbuthnot, a do-gooder, who directs others, including Bridget.

As everyone settles in, of course, a murder takes place. From this point on there is a case to be solved. Bridget is part of the investigation. What is in her past? In Gigi’s? How will the victim’s killer be brought to justice.?

I initially found this book to be a bit slow moving. I think, though, that it will be enjoyed by those who love traditional mysteries. It has received such good reviews overall.

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

From the Publisher

nyti.ms/2Yo0eZW

Capturing Character

by Edited by Anne T. Woollett, with contributions by Austėja Mackelaitė, John T. McQuillen, and others

This is simply a gorgeous book! It can be enjoyed by both art history scholars and those who enjoy looking at art. Many may know Holbein for his portraits of Henry VIII and Jane Seymour, among others. There is so much more to discover in these pages, however. The beautifully reproduced paintings that are included in this volume demonstrate Holbein’s gift for capturing his subjects. They feel very real and human. The volume also has art by Erasmus. There are, in addition, a number of well-written essays.

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

by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara

This time the little person with a big dream Charles Dickens. This entry in the well-done series introduces children to the prolific Victorian author. They learn about his father being sent to debtor’s prison and the many jobs that Charles had before becoming an author. Kids find out that readers eagerly awaited each entry in his serials. They discover that Dickens wrote one of the best known Christmas stories. All in all, a very nice look at the author and the power of words.

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

A Children’s Book to Encourage Kids and Their Parents to Move More, Sit Less and Decrease Screen Time

by Darryl Edwards

This title will hopefully engage its audience. It is a story about Nathan who likes to play video games…all the time! Then, one day, he and his dog, Lola, go on a magical journey where they meet lots of animals. Each one has something to show Nathan that has to do with movement.

Read this with a child you know. Encourage them, or better yet, both of you can move together. Balance like a crane, jump like a frog and so much more.

This title playfully engages youngsters in getting out and using their bodies. It will be good for them.

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

www.aarp.org/entertainment/books/info-2021/new-fiction-for-fall.html