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

This book is one of encouragement for women, something about which the author feels great passion.  This title includes short stories of women of accomplishment; for example, the first entry is on Janet Guthrie, an accomplished car racer while the second is about gymnast Simone Biles.  Following each of these are short phrases of empowerment on a topic.

Looking for some affirmation and encouragement?  If you say yes, this title is worth a look.

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

#ShineOn #NetGalley

Do you know a spy in the making?  Maybe a child between the ages of 7 and 10 who is looking for a fun read?  If so, I recommend this title that tells the stories of twenty real life spies.  They lived at different times and in different countries but all had intriguing lives and experiences.  Two of the many entries  in this title are on Alan Turing and Hedy Lamarr.  I enjoyed getting a child’s eye view of their contributions and accomplishments.

I recommend this title.  It will engage young readers.

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

#TheSecretLifeofSpies #NetGalley

This book will certainly be quickly picked up and read by those who love stories about Elizabeth and Phillip, and/or by those who enjoyed the Netflix series, The Crown.  This story starts as one of youth; readers observe as Elizabeth and Phillip get to know each other, beginning when the future queen was just a girl.  There is an early vivid scene of a Christmas pantomime at the castle during WWII.  Elizabeth is an Aladdin who eagerly looks for a certain dashing naval officer in the audience.  She is clearly interested in him.  But, what does he think of or want from her?  Even if you know how history played out, the author manages to create some suspense.

Phillip is portrayed as interested in this young Elizabeth but also as a man who is not fully ready to settle down.  The influence of his family history (royalty without a country) and his uncle Mountbatten’s pressure to become the future monarch’s husband are realistically portrayed.

Another section of the book, at the end of the war, shows Elizabeth as the young girl she is.  This has been the subject of a movie, A Royal Night Out. and very much comes to life in the novel.  It was one time when Elizabeth was able to shed her persona and be part of a crowd in a celebration.

From these beginning chapters, the author crafts a well told accounting of one of the longest and most famous marriages in the Western world, one that Elizabeth’s father did not initially endorse.  Readers are swept along as this couple moves toward one another and their eventual wedding.  Be there with them on this journey as the pages turn.

I highly recommend this readable and enjoyable historical novel.  Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this title in exchange for an honest review.

pub date:  September 18, 2020

#BeforetheCrown #NetGalley

This is absolutely the most adorable book and I recommend it highly.  Who knew that food could be so entertaining?

This title brings new meaning to play with your food! The youngest children will enjoy seeing the fun animals that are created from common foods like bread, cheese or strawberries.  There are cows, kittens, monkeys, pigs and more!

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

pub date:  September 15, 2020

The right to vote is one of the most important cornerstones of a democracy; right now voting feels so critical to the future of the U.S. But…children may need to be reminded that this right is not one to take for granted and that it came to be only after many struggles. In fact, they might be surprised to learn that women were not given the right to vote until 1920, long after the country came into being. As is obvious, this year is the 100th anniversary of the enfranchisement of women and an ideal time to learn about and reflect on this critical right and responsibility.
In this illustrated chapter book, the story of women’s suffrage is told The work of three generations of women, men and those of many backgrounds to change opinions and win this campaign, is described with its many ups and downs. Readers will meet the many important women who fought this fight including Carrie Chapman Catt, Susan B. Anthony, Elizabeth Cady Stanton and others. They will see this struggle put into context with issues of prejudice that were very much present in the country.
In addition to the main text, there are many pages that describe terms that readers may not be fully familiar with, as for example, how congress works or what the term constituent means. These will enhance the learning of the book’s audience.
This title should be in school libraries and in the homes of families. It details such an important movement in America. Hopefully readers will walk away with a sense of the importance and privilege of casting a ballot.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this title in exchange for an honest review.

#TheWomansHour #NetGalley

Alya and the Three Cats is a very sweet and appealing book. The illustrator captures the look and feel of each of the cats, all of whom enjoy being treated like princes. Myriam lovingly cares for Minouche, Pasha and Amir. The cats love climbing on Myriam but…what is happening? Myriam is getting larger. Why does she leave one day and return with a pink basket and what is inside it? Will there be enough love to go around?

Young children will enjoy this story, both to see the delightful illustrations and to understand a bit about bringing a baby into the home. It could be a great gift for an older sibling.

I truly enjoyed this adorable title. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this book in exchange for an honest review.

#AlyaandtheThreeCats #NetGalley

The Worst Witch books are a popular series for young readers.  They have also been made into a Netflix series.  So, children who know these books, and new readers, should both be delighted to add this book to their shelves.  It will give them an enjoyable and fun read.

Much like in Harry Potter, Jill Murphy creates an entire world for her characters.  It is based on British boarding schools but with its own take as Miss Cackle’s Academy.  This entry starts with Mildred flying to school on her broomstick.  Readers are immediately engaged as Mildred alters her flying height for her dog’s comfort, but what is bothering him?  And, the adventures go on from there.

I recommend this title highly.  It is fun and imaginative.  Those who are beginning to explore the joys of chapter books should delight in this one.

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

pub date:  September 22, 2020

#FirstPrizeForTheWorstWitch #NetGalley

Dracula is free!

Okay.  It is summer and definitely time for beach reads.  This book seems ideal for this seasonal moment as it is a juicy, escapist read.  The story follows multiple adult characters, a “mom squad,” and some children.  The setting is a town that I enjoyed visiting virtually and wish that I could really see.  The pages turn…quickly.

This book should appeal to those who enjoy books by Liane Moriary and Barbara Delinsky.  Think about adding it to your summer TBR.

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

#TwoTruthsandaLie #NetGalley

This title is part of a series on the attractions of some well-known cities. It is a board book for young children.
San Francisco: The Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf, Alcatraz and more! All can be found in this book as can other well-known places like crooked Lombard Street and the Castro. Planning a trip? Want to enlarge a little one’s world? If yes, give this book with its bold illustrations a look.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this title in exchange for an honest review.