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

I enjoyed Radio Girls:  see brief comment below.

I read this book when  it was first published and enjoyed it very much. This is an historical novel that is set  soon after WW I.  It takes place (obviously) before there was TV and when radio was a great source of news and entertainment and when the BBC was new.  There is a mix of historical and fictional personages in the novel.  John Reith and Hilda Matheson who played prominent roles at the station are featured.  The story moves along nicely with some suspense (having to do with a conspiracy) and this is an all around good read.

A blurb: “A bright, appealing novel about the early days of the BBC and the women behind its brilliant programming….[The] depiction of female friendship and support is one of the great strengths of Stratford’s novel, which so capably describes its characters’ thirst for knowledge, for information of all kinds. An intoxicating look inside a world of innovative new media.”—Kirkus Reviews

Having read everything by Tana French, I will say that The Likeness was my favorite.  I recommend it highly for those who like mysteries/procedurals.

This book will be helpful to parents, mental health professionals and young adults who are trying to understand why it can feel/be so hard to grow up. The author, a clinical family psychologist, writes in an easy to read style and includes many case examples to illustrate the complexity of what it is like to be in your 20s in the 21st century. Doctor McConville talks about some of the reasons why “launching” is harder right now. He clearly explains some of the issues and offers insights on these challenges. For example, he worked with a young man who could not make the necessary phone calls to obtain a summer job. The reader learns the reason why this was the case. Parents will understand more about why their young adults, seemingly bafflingly, continue to act more like teens.

The book includes sections elaborating on the skills that young adults need to master and the ways in which parents can help. It is an excellent resource and I recommend it highly.

Of note: I wish that this title had been around when I was transitioning to college. It helped me to better understand why I was struggling a bit.

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

#FailureToLaunch #NetGalley

Another Reginald Hill, part of an excellent series. Just bought the Philip Kerr.  The Small Rain is by well known children’s author who has written adult titles as well.  And, Father Brown is a well known priestly sleuth.

This short, wordless picture book for the youngest children is absolutely delicious.  With delicate illustrations reminiscent of those by Helen Oxenbury, young readers watch as a young child observes his mother’s expanding girth due to pregnancy.  The child tries to figure out what is happening.  He even tries to replicate the look with a balloon.  When the baby is born, he observes that his mom’s back to her usual shape.

This book is so very cute and can open the door to discussion on this life event.  I give this one five stars.  Adults will like it too!

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

#BabyBelly #NetGalley

Clarence’s Big Secret is based upon the life story of a real person. Clarence was a smart and BIG young boy. When he got to school, the teacher thought he was older than he was and asked him to do things that he had not yet learned. He fled school and never returned.

Clarence was clever and talented. He went on to have a very productive life while keeping his big secret. Find out what it was in this charming story which clearly shows that one is never too old to learn or overcome.

The illustrations feel a bit old fashioned but in a good way. They contribute to the story’s atmosphere.

This was a lovely read. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions are my own.

#ClarencesBigSecret #NetGalley

Don’t Let Go is such an appealing and charmingly illustrated story that both children and parents will love. The polar bear family goes to the beach. One young member of the clan does not want to go into the water independently. Watch as he is encouraged to get into the sea using a variety of toys. See what happens to his dad in the process!

This is a fun story. It is also sweet as it shows how parents care for their children.

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

Far out at sea, the water is as blue as cornflower petals and as clear as the purest glass.” So begins this version/translation of the well known fairy tale. It is nicely told here. The text is accompanied by pen and ink drawings that enhance the text. This Hans Christian Anderson tale is the basis for the Disney movie but is not the same. Read this for yourself or with a child that you know.

Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for giving me the opportunity to reread this beautifully written story. All opinions are my own.

#TheLittleMermaid #NetGalley

I had a real reaction to the end of this novel, though no spoilers here.  If you read it, or have read it, I’d love your opinion.

“In Jenna, [Jodi] Picoult has created an unforgettable character who will easily endear herself to each and every reader. . . . Leaving Time may be her finest work yet.”—Bookreporter

“[A] captivating and emotional story.”—BookPage
 
“With plenty of twists and a surprising ending, [Leaving Time] explores the grieving process and what happens when we cannot move on.”—Woman’s Day

“A moving and emotional story.”—Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
 
“A truly engaging read . . . Full of the deep characters and multilayered story lines that have earned [Picoult] a spot in many readers’ hearts.”—Library Journal

“Delivers a powerhouse ending.”—Booklist

“Memorable and poignant.”—Publishers Weekly

This book for the youngest children is absolutely adorable.  The illustrations are multicultural, engaging and appealing!  Toddlers will watch baby over the course of the day and learn what baby does, for example, when she puts on boots or a bib.  Highly recommended for the little ones.  I really liked this book.

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

This title will teach the rudiments of Spanish to its readers.  Both adults and younger students will find this book to be practical, engaging and helpful.  The book is divided into sections including Greetings, Getting to Know You, Time, Emotions, Health and Wellness, Emergencies, Jobs and Careers, Everyday Life, Travel, Out and About on the Town and Reason to Celebrate.  There are then sections that are more grammar related.

The individual lessons are short and should be practiced regularly.  There are quizzes to reinforce one’s learning.

I find this book to be a good resource and plan to study Spanish with it.  Gracias to NetGalley and the publisher for this read in exchange for an honest review.

#LearnSpanishwithPictures #NetGalley