en-US Wed, 14 May 2025 05:57:38 -0700 60 144 41 /images/layout/goodreads_logo_144.jpg 176443161
Deep beneath the ground outside of Geneva, where CERN’s Large Hadron Collider smashes subatomic particles at breathtaking speeds, a startling discovery is made when the tunnel is down for maintenance: the body of Howard Anderby, a brilliant and recently arrived young physicist, who appears to have been irradiated by the collider. But security shows no evidence of him entering the tunnel, and for all of the lab’s funding, its video surveillance is sorely lacking.

Eager to keep the death under wraps until more is known, CERN brings in private investigator Sabine Leroux, who has her own ties to the lab’s administration—and more than a passing interest in particle physics. Meanwhile, Howard’s colleague and budding love interest Eve, shattered by his death, determines to reconcile what she knew of Howard with his gruesome fate, wondering if she could have done something to stop it.

As Sabine digs into petty academic rivalries and personal secrets, an escalating international physics arms race heightens tensions and fuels speculation of a mole at the lab—throwing into question loyalties and revealing what sort of knowledge may be worth killing for.]]> 320 Nova Jacobs 1668018543 Jasmine 0 to-read 3.42 2024
author: Nova Jacobs
name: Jasmine
average rating: 3.42
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/14
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 224050315 From the bestselling, James Beard Award–winning food writer and author of ��â�ٱ𲹳� comes a beautifully illustrated cookbook that celebrates the French love affair with chocolate, featuring over 100 elegant recipes.

In France, chocolate is more than a treat—it’s a daily essential, and in Paris, it’s nothing short of an obsession. At the legendary food market Épicerie Bon Marché, hundreds of square feet are dedicated to everything chocolate, from biscuits and bonbons to baking bars and luxurious tins of drinking chocolate.

At home, chocolate shines in creations like pâte à tartiner (homemade Nutella) and gâteau au chocolat, a rich, nearly flourless cake with a texture that dances between mousse and moist crumb. The recipe for this cake in Chocolat is the little black dress of simple yet irresistible. While desserts like profiteroles, é������������, or bûches de Noël require some practice, many chocolate desserts are easy to make, thanks to chocolate’s minimal need for additional ingredients.

Alongside the user-friendly recipes are stunning illustrations by Parisian artist Cassandre Montoriol, providing a visual feast that enhances the rich flavors of the desserts described. Whether a dark chocolate mousse served whimsically in an ice cream cone or a lavender chocolate tart to delight your lunch guests, Chocolat celebrates simplicity and endless versatility—a must-have for your cookbook shelf, promising inspiration with every page.]]> Aleksandra Crapanzano 1668052008 Jasmine 0 to-read 0.0
author: Aleksandra Crapanzano
name: Jasmine
average rating: 0.0
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/14
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 215057587 These animals may put the "aww" in aww-dorable, but their deadly venom and killer instincts will also knock your socks off! From powerful poison to super strength, get ready to turn your squee into screams with this crew of killer cuties.

Isn't the furry little face of a hedgehog so cute? Not so much when he turns into a prickly little ball and all those quills poke you! Or what about the big, round eyes of the floofy northern pygmy owl? They draw you in but watch out for this small hunter where EVERYTHING is on the menu! Maybe the sweet, adorable ladybug will be kind. At least until they chomp their way through piles of aphids!

This informative yet humorous picture book introduces readers to some of the most adorable animals around and their killer instincts!]]> 48 Brooke Hartman 1728285291 Jasmine 0 to-read 4.11
author: Brooke Hartman
name: Jasmine
average rating: 4.11
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/13
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 215807613 You think your family is strange? What if your mom was a mermaid?!

Fans of the magical creatures in the "How to Catch a" series
will love this new super-silly picture book that celebrates how ALL families are weird. Includes two pages of stickers!

Mermaid Mom sings whale songs, never gets out of the bath, and tells really corny mom jokes ("How do mermaids send messages? By sea-mail!"). But when her daughter tags along with her to an underwater gig as a kids' party clown, she learns how funny and how special her mer-mom really is.

Young readers will love following this unusual mother-daughter team as they swim off on adventures in a funny and warm new picture book, the start of an exciting series.

With page after page of jokes, puns, and visual gags, this story's humor is perfect for families to read together. It's a book kids will want to go back to over and over. And it makes a perfect gift! 

Kids will be eagerly looking forward to the next "My Life Is Weird" book!]]> Bill Canterbury 0593807928 Jasmine 0 to-read 0.0
author: Bill Canterbury
name: Jasmine
average rating: 0.0
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/13
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 205436025
The trip of a lifetime might be the death of them all.

The students of LA’s elite Warner Prep can’t wait for their Senior Excursion—five days of Instagrammable adventure in one of the world’s most exclusive locations. This is not your average field trip.

Which is why eight students can’t believe their bad luck when they end up on a digital detox in an isolated Colorado ski chalet. Their epic trip is panning out to be an epic bore . . . until their classmates start dropping in a series of disturbing deaths. The message is clear: this trip is no accident.

And when a blizzard strikes, secrets are revealed, betrayals are exposed, and survival is at stake in a race to the bitter end.]]> 352 Alexa Donne 0593651065 Jasmine 0 to-read 3.66 2024
author: Alexa Donne
name: Jasmine
average rating: 3.66
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/13
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 56978103 Maggie Edkins Willis's Smaller Sister is a debut middle grade graphic novel about body image, confidence, and the everlasting bond of sisterhood.

Lucy's always looked up to her big sister, Olivia, even though the two are polar opposites. But then Lucy notices Olivia start to change. She doesn't want to play with Lucy anymore; she's unhappy with the way she looks; and she's refusing to eat her dinner. Finally, Lucy discovers that her sister is not just growing up: Olivia is struggling with an eating disorder.

While her family is focused on her sister's recovery, Lucy is left alone to navigate school and friendships. And just like her big sister, she begins to shrink.

But with time, work, and a dose of self-love, both sisters begin to heal and let themselves grow. Soon enough, Olivia and Lucy find their way back to each other―because sisters are the one friend you can never ditch.]]> 320 Maggie Edkins Willis 1250767423 Jasmine 5
In Kindergarten, Olivia has friends even though she's shy. She played with the same group of friends in every grade. Lucy had trouble making friends even though she's not shy. She wanted to be with her sister but her sister told her to stop tagging along. In middle school, they started at a new school. Lucy was okay at the new school but Olivia couldn't deal with change. She started to change herself and her eating habits. She lost weight and lost herself to the eating disorder. Their parents took care of Olivia and Lucy was often ignored and left to herself. She wanted her sister but her sister was angry often. Later, the family moved and they started at another new school. Olivia slowly getting better but Lucy's dealing with peer pressures and mean girls troubles. Lucy wanted change and trying to lose weight. Her sister reached out and helped Lucy so Lucy wouldn't repeat what Olivia went through.

The sister's story was sweet. I liked their secret sister code letters. I liked how they have each other. The summer camp was good. My kindergartener liked when Lucy draw her camp mate as the big bird. There are some lessons to be learned in this book and I'm glad to teach my girl early about eating, dieting, friends vs mean girls and bullies.. we also enjoyed the illustrations!

Thank you MacKidsBooks for the opportunity to read and review!]]> 4.34 2022
author: Maggie Edkins Willis
name: Jasmine
average rating: 4.34
book published: 2022
rating: 5
read at: 2025/05/11
date added: 2025/05/12
shelves: from-publisher, graphic-novel, middle-grade
review:
Read this graphic novel for my kindergartener. She and I loved the story! The title caught her attention as well as the first page. Olivia's reaction to Lucy's being her little sister was funny. They're a year a part. They played together and had disagreements. Olivia sometimes felt annoyed that Lucy copied everything she did from the art work to the Halloween costumes.

In Kindergarten, Olivia has friends even though she's shy. She played with the same group of friends in every grade. Lucy had trouble making friends even though she's not shy. She wanted to be with her sister but her sister told her to stop tagging along. In middle school, they started at a new school. Lucy was okay at the new school but Olivia couldn't deal with change. She started to change herself and her eating habits. She lost weight and lost herself to the eating disorder. Their parents took care of Olivia and Lucy was often ignored and left to herself. She wanted her sister but her sister was angry often. Later, the family moved and they started at another new school. Olivia slowly getting better but Lucy's dealing with peer pressures and mean girls troubles. Lucy wanted change and trying to lose weight. Her sister reached out and helped Lucy so Lucy wouldn't repeat what Olivia went through.

The sister's story was sweet. I liked their secret sister code letters. I liked how they have each other. The summer camp was good. My kindergartener liked when Lucy draw her camp mate as the big bird. There are some lessons to be learned in this book and I'm glad to teach my girl early about eating, dieting, friends vs mean girls and bullies.. we also enjoyed the illustrations!

Thank you MacKidsBooks for the opportunity to read and review!
]]> 26156988
The only thing that matters is what the prosecution can prove.

Eddie Flynn used to be a con artist. Then he became a lawyer. Turned out the two weren't that different.

It's been over a year since Eddie vowed never to set foot in a courtroom again. But now he doesn't have a choice. Olek Volchek, the infamous head of the Russian mafia in New York, has strapped a bomb to Eddie's back and kidnapped his ten-year-old daughter Amy.

Eddie only has 48 hours to defend Volchek in an impossible murder trial - and win - if wants to save his daughter.

Under the scrutiny of the media and the FBI, Eddie must use his razor-sharp wit and every con-artist trick in the book to defend his 'client' and ensure Amy's safety. With the timer on his back ticking away, can Eddie convince the jury of the impossible?

Lose this case and he loses everything.]]> 320 Steve Cavanagh 1250082250 Jasmine 4
I enjoyed the narrator. The epilogue was good. I wonder if that's the start of a new book because it was a different character from the main story.

This story followed a lawyer named Eddie Flynn. He's a good lawyer. He had a bad past. He was a hustler, scamming insurance companies. He was kidnapped by the mob. They put a bomb on him and told him to get into court with it. They were going to blow the guy that is turning against the mob boss to save himself. Eddie hasn't practiced law in a while. Being a defense lawyer isn't always great because sometimes he ended up helping bad guys walk away from doing bad things. He felt bad and turned to alcohol.

This story, however, Eddie had to work with everything he had to not only save himself but also save his daughter. The mob kidnapped his daughter and held her somewhere. Eddie used his hustle skills to outsmart the mob and those within the mob and along the way figure out a way to win the court case for his mob client.

I borrowed this audiobook from Libby App.]]> 3.99 2015
author: Steve Cavanagh
name: Jasmine
average rating: 3.99
book published: 2015
rating: 4
read at: 2025/05/12
date added: 2025/05/12
shelves: audiobooks, library, thrillers
review:
Started the series from the beginning. I enjoyed one or two books in between. Might as well get to know all characters in the series!

I enjoyed the narrator. The epilogue was good. I wonder if that's the start of a new book because it was a different character from the main story.

This story followed a lawyer named Eddie Flynn. He's a good lawyer. He had a bad past. He was a hustler, scamming insurance companies. He was kidnapped by the mob. They put a bomb on him and told him to get into court with it. They were going to blow the guy that is turning against the mob boss to save himself. Eddie hasn't practiced law in a while. Being a defense lawyer isn't always great because sometimes he ended up helping bad guys walk away from doing bad things. He felt bad and turned to alcohol.

This story, however, Eddie had to work with everything he had to not only save himself but also save his daughter. The mob kidnapped his daughter and held her somewhere. Eddie used his hustle skills to outsmart the mob and those within the mob and along the way figure out a way to win the court case for his mob client.

I borrowed this audiobook from Libby App.
]]> 214151571 From the instant New York Times bestselling author of The Writing Retreat, a white-knuckled locked-room thriller about a social worker who, after coming face-to-face with her dark past, must infiltrate a mysterious wellness center in the deserts of New Mexico.

When a catatonic woman shows up at the psychiatric unit, social worker Thea swears she knows her from somewhere. She’s shocked to discover the patient holds a link to a traumatic time in her past. Upon regaining lucidity, the patient claims she can’t remember the horrific recent events that caused her brain to shut down. Thea’s at a loss—especially when the patient is ripped away from her as suddenly as she appeared.

Determined to find her, Thea follows a trail of clues to a remote center in Southwestern New Mexico, where a charismatic couple holds a controversial monthly retreat to uncover attendees�� romantic and sexual issues. Forced to participate in increasingly intimate exercises, Thea finds herself inching closer not only to her missing patient, but also to tantalizing answers about her harrowing past. However, time is running out, and if she stays for the last session, she too might lose her mind…or worse.]]> 368 Julia Bartz 1982199490 Jasmine 0 currently-reading 3.01 2025
author: Julia Bartz
name: Jasmine
average rating: 3.01
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/12
shelves: currently-reading
review:

]]> 214195323 Mare of Easttown meets The Outsider in this spine-tingling and twisty debut about a series of disappearances in a small, fundamentalist town and what one broken family must do to remain together as dark forces close in.

After losing her young son in an accident, Rachel Kennan throws herself into her career as police chief of a small Virginia town to avoid focusing on her grief. Meanwhile, her husband, Finn, a washed-up writer whose alcoholism led to the devastating tragedy that changed everything, struggles to redeem himself before his family completely falls apart. Their two daughters are the only things keeping Rachel and Finn together, but the girls have demons of their own.

At the same time, a disturbing crime rocks their tightknit, religious community, sending Rachel chasing leads in a place that does not take kindly to outsiders. When an ominous force in the forest starts calling to the children, fear spawns hate among the townspeople, placing the Kennan family directly in the line of fire. Left with no choice but to rely on each other, Rachel and Finn must come together to face threats inside and out.

A haunting family saga and a disquieting horror debut, Nowhere draws from Appalachian folklore to caution us that true terror is what we bury in our own hearts.]]> 304 Allison Gunn 1668046679 Jasmine 0 to-read 3.61 2025
author: Allison Gunn
name: Jasmine
average rating: 3.61
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/12
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 216524187 Two massive stars face off, ready to tussle! Who will prevail? Readers get the stats from an expert astrophysicist and make their predictions before the final exciting KA-PLOOSH!

It’s time for the next round of outer-space, crash-and-smash fun, and this matchup is colossal! Two red supergiants are facing each other, ready for a scuffle. Each cranks out 100,000 times as much power as the Sun. (Don’t get too close or you’ll roast like a weenie in a campfire.) These mighty stars are equally matched, so either could come out on top—but hold on! One of the contenders has just exploded! And it’s left behind a neutron star with supernova energy. Now who will be left standing after this interstellar smackdown? It’s another collision of cosmic proportions in this fast-paced, fact-packed series, crammed with science, peppy illustrations, and the infectious energy of a live sporting event. Back matter provides even more info for curious fans.]]> 48 Marc J. Kuchner 1536227366 Jasmine 0 to-read 4.83
author: Marc J. Kuchner
name: Jasmine
average rating: 4.83
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/12
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 199636703
Η Λίλυ ήθελε πάντα να νιώθει ότι προστατεύει τη λίμνη της και όλους τους φίλους της που ζούσαν σε αυτήν�� Ώσπου μια τρομερή καταιγίδα ξέσπασε ξαφνικά και την έφερε αντιμέτωπη με τον μεγαλύτερο φόβο της!

Ένα τρυφερό παραμύθι που μας δείχνει πως ακόμα και οι μεγαλύτεροι φόβοι μας μπορούν να εξαφανιστούν όταν βρίσκουμε το θάρρος να τους μοιραστούμε με τους φίλους μας και να ζητήσουμε τη βοήθειά τους.]]> 32 Lucy Fleming 1529504473 Jasmine 0 to-read 4.15
author: Lucy Fleming
name: Jasmine
average rating: 4.15
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/12
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 176443476
For a sixteen-year-old, a summer internship working for a private investigator seems like a dream come true—particularly since the PI is investigating the most shocking crime to hit Bloomington, Indiana, in decades. A local woman has vanished, and the last time anyone saw her, she was in the backseat of a police car driven by a man impersonating an officer.

Marshall Miller’s internship puts him at the center of the action, a position he relishes until a terrifying moment that turns public praise for his sharp observations and uncanny memory into accusations of lying and imperiling the case. His detective mentor withdraws, friends and family worry and whisper, and Marshall alone understands that the darkness visiting his town this summer goes far beyond a single crime. Now his task is to explain it—and himself.

Lost Man's Lane is a coming-of-age tale of terror.]]> 516 Scott Carson 1982191457 Jasmine 0 to-read 4.14 2024
author: Scott Carson
name: Jasmine
average rating: 4.14
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/11
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 216523194 When the girls at school show off their shiny new bracelets, newly arrived immigrant Tien is embarrassed by the plain jade bracelet she wears as a symbol of her Vietnamese heritage.

Although Tien loves the Vietnamese traditions her family celebrates, more than anything she wants to fit in at school and be just like her classmates. So, when all the girls start wearing brand-new sparkly bracelets, Tien tries to hide the simple jade bangle her mother gave her in memory of her grandmother. Now her bracelet looks like an old green thing and an embarrassed Tien runs home crying, flinging it on the floor.  Her sympathetic mama understands and takes Tien to the shop to buy the popular bracelet. But at the last minute, Tien remembers her grandmother’s love and decides to wear her jade bracelet proudly.

   The Jade Bracelet is based on the author’s own experience of being the new kid at school and wanting to blend in. Now an elementary teacher, Hà Dinh encourages her immigrant students to share and honor their family’s traditions.]]> Hà Dinh 0593711807 Jasmine 0 to-read 4.60
author: Hà Dinh
name: Jasmine
average rating: 4.60
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/11
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 217388109 Status is hereditary, class is bestowed, trust must be earned.

When an arrogant prince (and his equally arrogant entourage) gets stuck in Orledder Halt as part of brutal political intrigue, competent and sunny deputy courier Elen―once a child slave meant to shield noblemen from the poisonous Pall―is assigned to guide him through the hills to reach his destination.

When she warns him not to enter the haunted Spires, the prince doesn’t heed her advice, and the man who emerges from the towers isn’t the same man who entered.

The journey that follows is fraught with danger. Can a group taught to ignore and despise the lower classes survive with a mere deputy courier as their guide?

The Witch Roads is the latest epic novel by fan favorite, Kate Elliott.]]> 448 Kate Elliott 1250338611 Jasmine 0 to-read 4.23 2025
author: Kate Elliott
name: Jasmine
average rating: 4.23
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/10
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 209439448
We all have them! And we have to live with them, even when they’re inconvenient, unpleasant, or surprising.

They might come out of nowhere! It's definitely not a good idea to hold them in for too long. But among friends and family, they are usually no big deal.

Striking a perfect balance of funny and factual, this charming audiobook encourages young listeners to accept their emotions (and their farts) without shame, even when they really stink.]]> 32 Christopher Willard 1250903076 Jasmine 0 to-read 4.40
author: Christopher Willard
name: Jasmine
average rating: 4.40
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/10
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 63089023 Daniela Sosa Jasmine 0 to-read 4.40
author: Daniela Sosa
name: Jasmine
average rating: 4.40
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/10
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 216247499 A one-of-a-kind guide to smarter decision-making based in the science of cognitive bias and the wisdom of storytelling

This book is an interactive game that empowers you to understand yourself in a new way, inviting you on a playful journey of self-discovery. ��
    Drawing from the science of cognitive bias, Ask This Book a Question will help you gain the insight you need to approach any decision with confidence. We all take these mental shortcuts, and this book with show you how they influence all aspects of our daily lives, from the way we perceive time, to how the people around us influence us, to our tendency to remember the bizarre over the familiar. When you view your questions in a different light, you’ll be surprised by how clear your answers become.  
    Start with a question and follow it through thought-provoking visuals and charts to find your journey through the book. Discover a multitude of paths to learn how cognitive biases can either sharpen your judgment or lead you  

What do I want right now? Consider how the Appeal to Novelty and overstimulation might be draining your attention and resources.  
Am I drinking too much? Recognize the role of Restraint Bias in your quest for well-being. 
How do I find my person? Uncover both sides of the Fundamental Attribution Error to deepen connections and navigate conflict with others.  
Am I spending too much money? Understand how Mental Accounting affects your financial decisions and discover the power of intentional spending.  
Should I quit my job? Confront the Sunk-Cost Effect to find courage when considering a career change. 
How can I become happier? Reclaim your leisure hours by finding joy in confetti, with the Denomination Effect. 
How do I become lucky? Mull over the big questions of purpose, meaning, and happiness, as you explore Optimism Bias. 
More than just a one-time read, treat this book like a wise old friend. Keep it close at hand as a trusted reference, turning to the prompts when you get stuck or recognize a cognitive bias at play. Over time, the insights and lessons within these pages will become deeply ingrained, empowering you to make more intentional, self-aware choices. 

    If you’re ready to unravel the magic of your own mind, understand the patterns they form, and create a narrative uniquely your own, Ask This Book A Question is your essential guide. Dive in and start exploring today �� your future self will thank you!]]> 320 Vicki Tan 0593716965 Jasmine 0 to-read 4.67
author: Vicki Tan
name: Jasmine
average rating: 4.67
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/09
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 213570827 Sharing, politeness, patience, respect, and good There are many ways to practice kindness, and tots will love learning more about them alongside a friendly Little Egg.

Using simple text and charming illustrations, our adorable Little Egg presents many ways to be kind to others. At the end of the book, kids will find a spinning wheel that lets them find and recognize different acts of kindness. A perfect introduction to emotional growth presented by an adorable Little Egg.]]> 20 duopress labs 1464225737 Jasmine 0 to-read 0.0
author: duopress labs
name: Jasmine
average rating: 0.0
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/09
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 203751813
Using simple text and charming illustrations, our adorable Little Egg presents each emotion and assures tots that it is completely normal to feel confused about our feelings. At the end of the book, kids will find a spinning wheel that lets them find and recognize their emotions. A perfect introduction to emotional growth and color concepts presented by an adorable Little Egg.]]> 20 duopress labs 1728296005 Jasmine 0 to-read 4.50
author: duopress labs
name: Jasmine
average rating: 4.50
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/09
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 215805896 Rear Window meets The Ring in this sinister YA thriller, in which a teen girl witnesses the livestreamed murder of a popular online streamer by a paranormal entity . . . and could be its next victim.

After surviving a car accident that claimed the life of her best friend, Teresa is now terrified to leave the safety of her bedroom. Since then, her only solace and window to the outside world has been the online community she found through streaming.

But one night, the safe world Teresa created starts to break down. A shadowy figure appears in the background of her favorite's streamer's video, and his behavior mysteriously changes over the next few days before he dies in front of thousands of viewers. Teresa finds herself at the center of a life-and-death investigation as the world tries to figure out what or who this figure could be . . . especially as it begins appearing in the other people's streams, compelling them to "open the door" and let it in—including Teresa’s own. In order to save herself and the rest of the internet from this relentless entity, Teresa must venture outside of the mental and physical walls she’s created. But will she be able to conquer her fears before anyone else loses their life?]]> 320 Mar Romasco-Moore 0593691881 Jasmine 0 to-read 3.61 2025
author: Mar Romasco-Moore
name: Jasmine
average rating: 3.61
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/09
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 214151345 For fans of Fantasyland, The Road to Jonestown, and Howard Zinn, a colorful and enlightening pop history of American doomsday belief that proposes that the United States is the largest cult of all.

Since the Mayflower sidled up to Plymouth Rock, cult ideology—whether among the Mormons and Oneidans of old or LuLaRoe and NXIVM today—has been ingrained in the DNA of the United States. In this eye-opening book, Jane Borden argues that we got this way because we always were.

Puritan doomsday belief never went away; it just went secular and became American culture. From our fascination with cowboys and superheroes to our undying love for capitalism and violence, and our obsessions with advertising, hard work, and self-help, the United States remains a breeding ground for cult-like thinking. With compelling insight, Borden uncovers the American history you didn’t get in school, including how these ideas still brainwash us today and make us a nation of easy marks for con artists and strong men. Along the way, she highlights some of the most infamous cults in this country—including, the Branch Davidians and Love Has Won—as integral parts of our psyche and reflections of their times.]]> 304 Jane Borden 1668007800 Jasmine 0 to-read 3.97 2025
author: Jane Borden
name: Jasmine
average rating: 3.97
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/08
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 63005226
High up in the Andes mountains of Peru, agricultural scientist Alberto Salas is on a quest. A quest... for potatoes.

Up and down the Andes mountains he goes, playing an epic game of paka paka con la papa, potato hide and seek. These potatoes are they have the power to feed, and save, the world.

Alberto doesn't have a second to waste. The climate is changing and Alberto must find each and every one to save them before they go extinct.

The game is on!

Alberto races and peers and prods. Drives and trods and climbs. Will he find the potato he seeks? Will he win the game of paka paka con la papa?

Debut author Sara Andreas Fajardo’s spirited biography about “the godfather of potatoes�� is paired with lush, playful art by Caldecott-honoree Juana Martinez-Neal to capture how celebrated scientist Alberto Salas brings joy, curiosity, and fun to his very important, life-changing work.]]> 40 Sara Andrea Fajardo 1250838614 Jasmine 0 to-read 4.77
author: Sara Andrea Fajardo
name: Jasmine
average rating: 4.77
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/08
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 224004049 “So clever and fresh with a wild and incredibly satisfying twist at the end.�� —Lisa Jewell, #1 New York Times bestselling author

A dinner party in a beautiful Notting Hill townhouse turns into a sinister game, as six old friends are forced to spill their darkest secrets…or else.

Six friends reunite in London to celebrate the life of their recently deceased ex-employer, a professor that brought them together in 1999 to help build a dating website based on psychological testing.

But what is meant to be a night of bittersweet nostalgia soon becomes a twisted and deadly game when the old friends find themselves held at gunpoint. They are given an ultimatum: reveal their darkest secrets to the group or pick each other off one-by-one.

It soon becomes clear that their current predicament is related to their shared past. The love questionnaire they helped develop in 1999 for the dating site was also turned into a tool for weeding out The Wasp Trap. This and the other tragic events of that summer long ago may help reveal the truth behind a killer hiding in plain sight.

Alternating between the past and present with a colorful ensemble of characters, The Wasp Trap is a fast-paced and twisty thrill ride that is perfect for fans of Lucy Foley and Alice Feeney.]]> 336 Mark Edwards 1668204770 Jasmine 0 to-read 3.97 2025
author: Mark Edwards
name: Jasmine
average rating: 3.97
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/08
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 122774322 Harper L. Woods Jasmine 0 to-read 4.03 2025
author: Harper L. Woods
name: Jasmine
average rating: 4.03
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/08
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 213870089 A League of Their Own meets The Mighty Ducks in this fierce and heartfelt queer MG contemporary novel about learning to face your fears even when your goals are on thin ice.

Some goals are worth falling for.

After a lifetime of humiliating sports experiences, Bea Mullins knows the best way to survive middle school is to stick to the sidelines. When PE is suddenly canceled, though, Bea is forced to join an after-school activity...which is how she ends up as a member of the Glenwood Geese, her middle school's first all-girls hockey team.

Bea would be happy sitting on the bench, but she doesn't want to let down her best friend, Celia. Plus, the more time Bea spends on the rinks, the more she comes to enjoy her teammates, especially the incredibly talented--and incredibly cool--co-captain Gabi. But when low funding puts the Geese in danger of never playing again, Bea realizes she may lose everything she didn't know she wanted.

A hilarious and heartfelt middle-grade contemporary about first crushes and fierce friendships from debut author Emily Deibert.]]> 336 Emily Deibert 0593808894 Jasmine 0 to-read 4.48 2025
author: Emily Deibert
name: Jasmine
average rating: 4.48
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/07
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 216971937 The youngest child of a simple fishing family discovers the truth about the faraway monster they fear in this delightful, imaginative debut.

The Finlock family lives by the Pincer Sea, as peaceful as can be. They spend their days lounging and fishing for fronds to cook in their little copper kettles. It’s an idyllic life, disturbed only by their great fear of the frimbulitic Terrakeet! Luckily, they’ve never seen this carnivorous beast, for it lives beyond Finlock Bay. But one day, when there are no fronds to be found, the youngest Finlock journeys in all directions to search for other delectables . . . and comes face-to-face with the dreaded creature! But would such a terrible monster cry about swarming bees? Would it ask if the lad had been fed? First-time author Jo van der Borgh uses playful invented language to craft a classic story of discovering the true nature of others and making unexpected friends, illustrated with utter charm by Jo Beasley.]]> 32 Joanna van der Borgh 153623589X Jasmine 0 to-read 3.94
author: Joanna van der Borgh
name: Jasmine
average rating: 3.94
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/07
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 216972016 Andy the ant is planning a small party for his birthday. But as word spreads around the anthill, the guest list grows and grows! Exuberant fun on every colorful page.

It’s another busy day at the anthill. Farmer ants collect food, worker ants build tunnels, and soldier ants guard the queen. But for Andy, it’s a very special day: his birthday! He invites his neighbors for a fun party with dancing and dips. But unbeknownst to Andy, his neighbors invite a few of their friends, and then those friends invite a few of their friends . . . Soon the event is shaping up to be a full-blown mega ant party! Andy is shocked by the turnout, but soon gets into the swing of things. Until, that is, an unwelcome guest crashes the party—and Andy’s house!—and the ants must work together to save the day (and the dips). Jovial text and lively, detailed illustrations make this story a comedic delight.]]> 40 Ross Montgomery 1536239534 Jasmine 0 to-read 3.83
author: Ross Montgomery
name: Jasmine
average rating: 3.83
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/07
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 216971966 Every friendship faces challenges. Orris and Timble are back in a poignant and evocatively illustrated tale of trust from a two-time Newbery Medalist.

Orris the rat and Timble the owl are unlikely friends. Each night, Timble visits Orris in the barn and listens to his stories. But Timble is growing up, and one evening when the owl doesn’t appear as usual Orris wonders if Timble has forgotten him. Is their friendship over? Or could it be that Timble has a tale of his own to share? Illustrated with wistful tenderness, the second title in a projected trilogy to feature this charmingly offbeat pair masterfully explores the stories we tell ourselves, the stories we tell each other, and the binding magic of friendship.]]> 80 Kate DiCamillo 1536225304 Jasmine 0 to-read 4.42
author: Kate DiCamillo
name: Jasmine
average rating: 4.42
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/07
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 214151264
Finding joy and laughter in the mundane can be challenging at times, but Hannah Berner and Paige DeSorbo have mastered the art of not taking life too seriously. Brought together under the bright lights of reality television, these best friends bonded in incredibly intense circumstances. They quickly came to realize that one of the bedrocks of their friendship is their shared experience with social anxiety. As their friendship deepened, they found themselves constantly devolving into laughter, earning them the nickname “The Giggly Squad,�� and with that, their superpower—laughing through life’s hardest moments—was born. Their podcast, Giggly Squad, feels like calling your best friend for a long overdue catch-up. No topic is off limits. No subject too small. And, most importantly, nothing is so serious that you can’t find a way to make it seem less scary by poking fun at it.]]> 208 Hannah Berner 1668056003 Jasmine 0 to-read 4.26
author: Hannah Berner
name: Jasmine
average rating: 4.26
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/07
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 220195725 In this razor-sharp, diabolical debut thriller, a young woman steps into her deceased twin’s influencer life, only to discover dark secrets hidden behind her social media façade.

Julie Chan has nothing. Her twin sister has everything. Except a pulse.

Julie Chan, a supermarket cashier with nothing to lose, finds herself thrust into the glamorous yet perilous world of her late twin sister, Chloe VanHuusen, a popular influencer. Separated at a young age, the identical twins were polar opposites and rarely spoke, except for one viral video that Chloe initiated (Finding My Long-Lost Twin And Buying Her A House #EMOTIONAL). When Julie discovers Chloe’s lifeless body under mysterious circumstances, she seizes the chance to live the life she’s always envied.

Transforming into Chloe is easier than expected. Julie effortlessly adopts Chloe’s luxurious influencer life, complete with designer clothes, a meticulous skincare routine, and millions of adoring followers. However, Julie soon realizes that Chloe’s seemingly picture-perfect life was anything but.

Haunted by Chloe’s untimely death and struggling to fit into the privileged influencer circle, Julie faces mounting challenges during a weeklong island retreat with Chloe’s exclusive group of influencer friends. As events spiral out of control, Julie uncovers the sinister forces that may have led to her sister’s demise and realizes she might be the next target.]]> 320 Liann Zhang 1668067919 Jasmine 0 to-read 3.63 2025
author: Liann Zhang
name: Jasmine
average rating: 3.63
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/07
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 218155525 In this authentic and heartfelt middle-grade novel, Maple uses her artwork to help sort through sibling relationships, school drama, and her parents�� increasingly fraught marriage.

Ten-year-old Maple can’t wait for summer: No more math! Adventures with her friends! Best of all, she and Dad are finally going to build a real treehouse. Or are they? Lately Dad has been quick to storm off when he argues with Mom, which happens more and more. Maple seeks refuge in her sketchbook, filling it with comics and other drawings and posing the questions she can’t bring herself to ask anywhere else. She imagines “Dadlandia,�� a place that Dad whooshes off to when he’s gone. Maple confides in her favorite tree—her namesake—that she wishes Dad would come home for good. But eventually, Maple will need to step outside her imagination and confront what’s happening for real. For that, she will need support from friends and family—and strength and courage from within. Celebrated author Jo Knowles delivers complex characters and emotions with care, while illustrator Glynnis Fawkes’s powerful illustrations perfectly capture Maple’s creative spirit, her struggles, and her capacity for hope.]]> 304 Jo Knowles 1536231274 Jasmine 0 to-read 4.33
author: Jo Knowles
name: Jasmine
average rating: 4.33
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/06
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 211003787 From New York Times bestseller and Edgar-Award nominee Elle Cosimano, comes Finlay Donovan Digs Her Own Grave—the hugely anticipated next installment in the fan-favorite Finlay Donovan series.

Finlay Donovan may have skeletons in her closet . . . but at least there's not a body in her backyard.

Finlay Donovan and her nanny/partner-in-crime, Vero, have not always gotten along with Finlay’s elderly neighbor, Mrs. Haggerty, the community busybody and president of the neighborhood watch. But when a dead body is discovered in her backyard, Mrs. Haggerty needs their help. At first a suspect, Mrs. Haggerty is cleared by the police, but her house remains an active crime scene. She has nowhere to go . . . except Finlay’s house, right across the street.

Finlay and Vero have no interest in getting involved in another murder case—or sacrificing either of their bedrooms. After all, they’ve dealt with enough murders over the last four months to last a lifetime and they both would much rather share their beds with someone else.]]> 320 Elle Cosimano 1250337348 Jasmine 5 audiobooks, thrillers
This story, Finlay's ex-husband is blamed for murdering a dead man found in the neighbor's backyard. His infidelity caught up to him. It was used as an excuse that he had relationship with the dead man's wife along with his work at the neighbor's backyard. The nosy neighbor had to stay at Finlay's house because her house had some problems. Finlay was not fond of the arrangement but the nosy neighbor made sure she got what she wanted. Soon it came in handy that she was there. She took care of Finlay's kids' troubles. As much as Finlay disliked her ex for cheating on her while they were married, she was determined that he was innocent of murder. She and Vero took the investigation into their own hands. They had unexpected adventures that lead them to discover a secretive operation.

Definitely a reread series. I think there may be another book because Vero's trouble past caught up with her in the end..

Thank you Macmillan Audio for the complimentary audiobook!]]> 4.12 2025
author: Elle Cosimano
name: Jasmine
average rating: 4.12
book published: 2025
rating: 5
read at: 2025/05/06
date added: 2025/05/06
shelves: audiobooks, thrillers
review:
Excellent audiobook! The narrator for this series is amazing! I loved this story. Good humor, action, and adventures. It's about time Finlay deal with her old nosy neighbor. The neighbor was definitely filled with surprises!

This story, Finlay's ex-husband is blamed for murdering a dead man found in the neighbor's backyard. His infidelity caught up to him. It was used as an excuse that he had relationship with the dead man's wife along with his work at the neighbor's backyard. The nosy neighbor had to stay at Finlay's house because her house had some problems. Finlay was not fond of the arrangement but the nosy neighbor made sure she got what she wanted. Soon it came in handy that she was there. She took care of Finlay's kids' troubles. As much as Finlay disliked her ex for cheating on her while they were married, she was determined that he was innocent of murder. She and Vero took the investigation into their own hands. They had unexpected adventures that lead them to discover a secretive operation.

Definitely a reread series. I think there may be another book because Vero's trouble past caught up with her in the end..

Thank you Macmillan Audio for the complimentary audiobook!
]]> 252577
"When I look back on my childhood I wonder how I managed to survive at all. It was, of course, a miserable childhood: the happy childhood is hardly worth your while. Worse than the ordinary miserable childhood is the miserable Irish childhood, and worse yet is the miserable Irish Catholic childhood."

So begins the Pulitzer Prize winning memoir of Frank McCourt, born in Depression-era Brooklyn to recent Irish immigrants and raised in the slums of Limerick, Ireland. Frank's mother, Angela, has no money to feed the children since Frank's father, Malachy, rarely works, and when he does he drinks his wages. Yet Malachy—exasperating, irresponsible and beguiling—does nurture in Frank an appetite for the one thing he can provide: a story. Frank lives for his father's tales of Cuchulain, who saved Ireland, and of the Angel on the Seventh Step, who brings his mother babies.

Perhaps it is story that accounts for Frank's survival. Wearing rags for diapers, begging a pig's head for Christmas dinner and gathering coal from the roadside to light a fire, Frank endures poverty, near-starvation and the casual cruelty of relatives and neighbors—yet lives to tell his tale with eloquence, exuberance and remarkable forgiveness.

Angela's Ashes, imbued on every page with Frank McCourt's astounding humor and compassion, is a glorious book that bears all the marks of a classic.]]> 452 Frank McCourt 0007205236 Jasmine 0 to-read 4.15 1996
author: Frank McCourt
name: Jasmine
average rating: 4.15
book published: 1996
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/06
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 431 The remarkable, acclaimed series of interconnected detective novels �� from the author of 4 3 2 1: A Novel

The New York Review of Books has called Paul Auster’s work “one of the most distinctive niches in contemporary literature.�� Moving at the breathless pace of a thriller, this uniquely stylized triology of detective novels begins with City of Glass, in which Quinn, a mystery writer, receives an ominous phone call in the middle of the night. He’s drawn into the streets of New York, onto an elusive case that’s more puzzling and more deeply-layered than anything he might have written himself. In Ghosts, Blue, a mentee of Brown, is hired by White to spy on Black from a window on Orange Street. Once Blue starts stalking Black, he finds his subject on a similar mission, as well. In The Locked Room, Fanshawe has disappeared, leaving behind his wife and baby and nothing but a cache of novels, plays, and poems.

This Penguin Classics Deluxe Edition includes an introduction from author and professor Luc Sante, as well as a pulp novel-inspired cover from Art Spiegelman, Pulitzer Prize-winning graphic artist of Maus and In the Shadow of No Towers.]]> 308 Paul Auster 0143039830 Jasmine 0 to-read 3.93 1987
author: Paul Auster
name: Jasmine
average rating: 3.93
book published: 1987
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/06
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 208840714 30 Bridget Heos 1250321514 Jasmine 0 to-read 3.50
author: Bridget Heos
name: Jasmine
average rating: 3.50
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/05
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 208840751 For fans of If Sharks Disappeared, this kid-friendly picture book is a true story about how community action saved the whales of New York Harbor and reversed the effects of climate change.

Spanning from pre-colonization to today, learn how the industrial revolution, overfishing, and pollution drove whales away from New York Harbor and the Hudson River by the early 20th Century.

But the story doesn’t end there.

Passionate citizens were able to band together and clean up the harbor through activism and legislation. The first whales were spotted in the Hudson after over 100 years in 2019!

Here is an uplifting environmental success story full of towering skyscrapers and underwater dramatics that highlights the power of community �� voicing to readers of all ages that each of us can make a difference. Also includes backmatter on whales and water pollution around the country.]]> 40 Nancy F. Castaldo 037430856X Jasmine 0 to-read 4.46
author: Nancy F. Castaldo
name: Jasmine
average rating: 4.46
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/05
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 224003653 In this richly atmospheric, dark academia debut novel, a young woman with a secretive past will risk everything—including her life—to fit in.

Belles never tell��

It’s 1951 at the secluded Bellerton College, and Deena Williams is an outsider doing her best to blend in with her wealthy and perfectly groomed peers. Infamous for its strict rules as much as its prestige, attending Bellerton could give Deena the comfortable life she’s always dreamed of.

She quickly forms an alliance with the five other freshmen on her floor, and soon they are singled out by the president’s wife as the most promising girls of their class, who anoints The Belles. They walk the college’s halls in menacing unison, matching velvet ribbons in their hair. But no sisterhood comes without secrets, and the Belles are no exception. Playing cruel pranks on their dormitory housemother and embarking on boundary-shattering night games, the Belles test the limits of the campus rules.

But as Deena begins to piece together the sinister history of Bellerton, her own past threatens to come to light, forcing her to make a dangerous choice. A chilling and seductive coming-of-age story, The Belles is an excavation of the dark side of girlhood, the intricacies of privilege, and the unbridled desire to belong at any cost.]]> 304 Lacey N. Dunham 1668084864 Jasmine 0 to-read 3.86
author: Lacey N. Dunham
name: Jasmine
average rating: 3.86
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/05
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 211003745 An inverse The Handmaid’s Tale that asks: What if women took over the world?

It is the New Time, a time not so different from ours except that the men are gone. All but eleven percent, that is, the minimum required to avoid inbreeding. But they are safely under lock and key in “spa�� centers for women’s pleasure (trained by amazons to fulfill all desires) and procreation. A few women protest that the males should be treated better �� more space, better food, but all agree that testosterone cannot be allowed to go free. The old patriarchal cities are crumbling, becoming overgrown (women don’t blow things up); people now live in round houses in round communities. But if you prefer the slum, that’s okay too. Religion has survived, sort of: women priestesses speak in tongues, inspired by snake venom, as apples are passed around to the congregation.

Four different lives intersect: Medea, a tiny, long-haired witch and snake whisperer; Wicca, a young priestess who excelled at the “self-pleasuring�� curriculum in school and has lost her pregnant lover; Eva, a doctor working in a spa center, and Silence, who lives in an almost abandoned convent. Each has a secret and one is not what she seems.

This is the first novel to appear in English by celebrated Danish author Maren Uthaug. Provocative, irreverent, slightly squeamish-making and completely riveting, Eleven Percent makes you think.]]> 304 Maren Uthaug 1250329647 Jasmine 0 to-read 3.42 2022
author: Maren Uthaug
name: Jasmine
average rating: 3.42
book published: 2022
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/05
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 214152211 One family. Four generations. A secret son. A devastating addiction. A Texas family is met with losses and surprises of inheritance, but they’re unable to shake the pull back toward each other in this big-hearted family saga perfect for readers of Mary Beth Keane and Claire Lombardo.

Ryan and Lillian Bright are deeply in love, recently married, and now parents to a baby girl, Georgette. But Lillian has a son she hasn’t told Ryan about, and Ryan has an alcohol addiction he hasn’t told Lillian about, so Georgette comes of age watching their marriage rise and fall.

When a shocking blow scatters their fragile trio, Georgette tries to distance herself from reminders of her parents. Years later, Lillian’s son comes searching for his birth family, so Georgette must return to her roots, unearth her family’s history, and decide whether she can open up to love for them—or herself—while there’s still time.

Told from three intimate points of view, The Bright Years is a tender, true-to-life novel that explores the impact of each generation in a family torn apart by tragedy but, over time, restored by the power of grace and love.]]> 288 Sarah Damoff 1668061449 Jasmine 0 to-read 4.35 2025
author: Sarah Damoff
name: Jasmine
average rating: 4.35
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/04
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 219781824 Dive into a side-splitting InvestiGators adventure in Agents of Wild Ghost Chase! This laugh-out-loud graphic novel is perfect for fans of Bunny vs Monkey!

'Fast, fabulous, and fantastically funny' - Jamie Smart, creator of Bunny vs Monkey, on InvestiGators.

New S.U.I.T.* recruit Zeb the sheep joins the flock to help crack the greatest mystery of all! But, just what is the greatest mystery of all?

Pondering that conundrum is what has kept the dearly departed General Inspectre tethered to Earth long after he should have moved on to the great super-spy base in the sky. Zeb must solve the series' biggest mystery EVER to finish the Inspectre's unfinished business!

Created by John Patrick Green with cowriter Christopher Hastings and artist Pat Lewis, join the Agents of S.U.I.T. in this hilarious adventure! Don't miss more adventures with Zeb's colourful coworkers Cilantro, Bongo and Marsha, or the hilarious InvestiGators comic book series!

*Special Undercover Investigation Teams]]> 208 John Patrick Green 1035063247 Jasmine 0 to-read 5.00
author: John Patrick Green
name: Jasmine
average rating: 5.00
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/04
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 1704338 44 Walt Disney Company 0717283194 Jasmine 5 library, picture-books 3.89
author: Walt Disney Company
name: Jasmine
average rating: 3.89
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2022/08/31
date added: 2025/05/04
shelves: library, picture-books
review:
Read for my toddler's bedtime. Beautiful classic story.
]]> 176443330 The new thrilling novel from Megan Miranda, the instant New York Times bestselling author of All the Missing Girls, The Last to Vanish, and The Only Survivors.

When Hazel Sharp, daughter of Mirror Lake’s longtime local detective, unexpectedly inherits her childhood home, she’s warily drawn back to the town—and people—she left behind almost a decade earlier. But Hazel’s not the only relic of the past to return: a drought has descended on the region, and as the water level in the lake drops, long-hidden secrets begin to emerge…including evidence that may help finally explain the mystery of her mother’s disappearance.]]> 368 Megan Miranda Jasmine 4
This story followed Hazel. She came home to the small town to attend her father's funeral. He's not her true father but someone her mom dated. He took her in and raised her along with his kids. He's the town police and later are his sons. The will stated that his house goes to Hazel after his death. It sparked angers among the family especially the younger brother. As soon as abandoned cars surfacing from the lake and Hazel connecting the dots, secrets started to come out. Some wanted the secrets to stay buried to save someone they loved but not Hazel. She wanted to let the secrets out because she wanted to know the mystery of her mother's disappearance.

I got teary eyed with the family situation. Glad that stepfamily can love each other. I listened to the beginning of the story again and noticed what I missed originally. I also realized that their dad, Perry died without knowing the true killer which is too bad. It's also funny that the killer chased someone into the water instead of using the gun to shoot. Overall, a great story and I can't wait to check out other books from the author.

Thank you Simon Audio and Mary Sue Rucci Books for the opportunity to read, listen, and review!]]> 3.88 2024
author: Megan Miranda
name: Jasmine
average rating: 3.88
book published: 2024
rating: 4
read at: 2025/05/02
date added: 2025/05/03
shelves: audiobooks, from-publisher, thrillers
review:
Excellent story! Good suspense and mystery. I enjoyed this mystery thriller audiobook. A bit of a slow start at first but once the car was discovered in the lake and Hazel realized who the car belonged to, I was hooked to the mystery! The ending though, I'm unsure what will become of Jamie. I would also like to hear from Nico and his reaction knowing who actually killed his dad because he thought he lived with a secret for so long. Instead of the weather countdown, I would have loved it if there was a view of the killer explaining or justifying the reasons for killing.

This story followed Hazel. She came home to the small town to attend her father's funeral. He's not her true father but someone her mom dated. He took her in and raised her along with his kids. He's the town police and later are his sons. The will stated that his house goes to Hazel after his death. It sparked angers among the family especially the younger brother. As soon as abandoned cars surfacing from the lake and Hazel connecting the dots, secrets started to come out. Some wanted the secrets to stay buried to save someone they loved but not Hazel. She wanted to let the secrets out because she wanted to know the mystery of her mother's disappearance.

I got teary eyed with the family situation. Glad that stepfamily can love each other. I listened to the beginning of the story again and noticed what I missed originally. I also realized that their dad, Perry died without knowing the true killer which is too bad. It's also funny that the killer chased someone into the water instead of using the gun to shoot. Overall, a great story and I can't wait to check out other books from the author.

Thank you Simon Audio and Mary Sue Rucci Books for the opportunity to read, listen, and review!
]]> 211482333
Tim Minchin has a reputation for writing a good speech, and has been asked to do so on several occasions. Drawn from three of Tim’s most beloved university commencement addresses, You Don’t Have to Have a Dream offers his inimitable thoughts and advice on life, art, success, kindness, love, and thriving in a meaningless universe.

Featuring specially commissioned illustrations throughout, You Don’t Have to Have a Dream is a rallying cry for creativity and compassion in our daily lives, and how it’s never too late to put something beautiful out into the world.

57 min.]]> 105 Tim Minchin 1529931843 Jasmine 0 to-read 4.09
author: Tim Minchin
name: Jasmine
average rating: 4.09
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/02
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 220160259 From the author of the “irresistible�� (Paula Hawkin, #1 New York Times bestselling author) Where the Truth Lies, an atmospheric novel about a young woman who searches for answers after her estranged friend is found dead in the bayou of their rural Louisiana hometown.

The Labasques aren’t like other families.

Living in a shack out in the swamps, they made do by hunting down alligators and other animals. To the good people of Jacknife, Louisiana, they are troublemakers and outcasts, the kind of people you wouldn’t want in your community.

So, when Cutter Labasque is found face down in the muddy swamp, no one seems to care, not even her two brothers. The only person who questions the official verdict of suicide is Cutter’s childhood friend, Loyal May, who has just returned home to care for her mother. When she left town at eighteen years old, she betrayed Cutter. Now with a ragtag group from the local paper where she works, Loyal goes in search of answers, uncovering a web of deceit and corruption that implicates those in town. It may be too late to apologize to Cutter, but Loyal has restitution in mind.

Weaving through the swamps and bayous of rural Louisiana, Our Last Wild Days is an atmospheric, smoldering suspense about our darker impulses—and how to set things right.]]> 352 Anna Bailey 1982157194 Jasmine 0 to-read 4.07 2025
author: Anna Bailey
name: Jasmine
average rating: 4.07
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/02
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 211003742 A laugh-out-loud picture book with a feel-good message from bestselling comics creator Kate Beaton about a half-human-half-shark bent on revenge after a greedy fishing captain messes with her waters �� perfect for fans of We Don’t Eat Our Classmates and The Legend of Rock Paper Scissors.

When Shark Girl is captured by an evil fishing captain's net, she makes a vow... for REVENGE!

With the sea witch's help, Shark Girl becomes a human sailor and launches a plan... for MUTINY!

But Shark Girl needs the help of her crew mates before she can enact her plan. Will Shark girl SINK... or SWIM?

Bestselling creator Kate Beaton has created a subversive and hilarious spin on the classic little mermaid fairytale that will inspire little readers to seek their own revenge on behalf of justice!]]> 48 Kate Beaton 1250184924 Jasmine 0 to-read 4.01
author: Kate Beaton
name: Jasmine
average rating: 4.01
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/02
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 217387935 Naomi Novik's Scholomance series meets Plain Bad Heroines in this sapphic dark academia fantasy by instant national and international bestselling author Emily Tesh, winner of the Hugo and World Fantasy Awards.

"Look at you, eating magic like you're one of us."

Doctor Walden is the Director of Magic at Chetwood Academy and one of the most powerful magicians in England. Her days consist of meetings, teaching A-Level Invocation to four talented, chaotic sixth formers, more meetings, and securing the school's boundaries from demonic incursions.

Walden is good at her job―no, Walden is great at her job. But demons are masters of manipulation. It’s her responsibility to keep her school with its six hundred students and centuries-old legacy safe. And it’s possible the entity Walden most needs to keep her school safe from―is herself.]]> 432 Emily Tesh 1250835011 Jasmine 0 to-read 4.18 2025
author: Emily Tesh
name: Jasmine
average rating: 4.18
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/02
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 205307707 24 Clea Shearer 0593712188 Jasmine 5 board-book, from-publisher
Thank you Random House Kids for the opportunity to read and review!]]> 3.91
author: Clea Shearer
name: Jasmine
average rating: 3.91
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2025/04/29
date added: 2025/05/01
shelves: board-book, from-publisher
review:
Read for my toddler's bedtime. This book is excellent for kids! Teaching kids to clean up and exactly where to put away. My toddler apply her learning the next day! This book tells kids to put books on bookshelf, dirty dishes in the sink, clean dishes on the shelves, trash in the trashcan, dirty clothes in the hamper, etc! I love books that tells exactly what to do. The illustrations are great!

Thank you Random House Kids for the opportunity to read and review!
]]> 58132046
Toddlers are natural dancers and they love to move! Channel toddlers�� energy and help them develop balance, coordination, and control with the help of this engaging choice in dance books for toddlers. Moving along with the story will help stimulate little brains and provide a fun, creative way to build spatial awareness. Tons of colorful pictures offer toddlers visual clues for the movements, and rhyming words make reading aloud feel like music!

Movement and motor skills—Little ones will begin by isolating individual body parts, like their hands, hips, arms, and toes. Dynamic dancing—Toddlers will harness their imagination to dance the prancing pony, flapping chicken, and twirling pinwheel. Keep the fun going—Explore a list of online dance videos and resources to help them keep moving and developing even when the book is finished.

Set the stage for an active childhood with this standout in toddler books!]]> 52 Rachelle Burk 1648762573 Jasmine 0 to-read 4.14
author: Rachelle Burk
name: Jasmine
average rating: 4.14
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/01
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 202399145 Discover the life of Taylor Swift—a story about the power of words and being yourself for kids ages 6 to 9

Taylor Swift is one of the most famous musical artists in the world! Before she became a big star, she was a little girl who loved country music and writing stories. Explore how she went from growing up on a Christmas tree farm in Pennsylvania to being an international role model and the youngest person ever to win the Entertainer of the Year award.Independent reading—This Taylor Swift biography for kids is broken down into short chapters and simple language so young readers 6 to 9 can learn on their own.Critical thinking—Kids will learn the Who, What, Where, When, Why, and How of Taylor’s life, and find definitions of new words, discussion questions, and more.A lasting legacy—Find out how Taylor's kindness, ambition, and talent for storytelling have made her an incredible figure in music and pop culture.How will Taylor's creativity and dedication inspire you?

Discover activists, artists, athletes, and more from across history with the rest of The Story Of series, including famous figures Simone Biles, Jane Goodall, Ella Fitzgerald, Audrey Hepburn, and Frida Kahlo.]]> 72 Rachelle Burk Jasmine 0 to-read 4.68
author: Rachelle Burk
name: Jasmine
average rating: 4.68
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/01
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 202399146 64 Allison Kimmey Jasmine 0 to-read 4.25
author: Allison Kimmey
name: Jasmine
average rating: 4.25
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/01
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 56075874 A deadly prosecutor

They call him the King of Death Row. Randal Korn has sent more men to their deaths than any district attorney in the history of the United States.

A twisted ritualistic killing

When a young woman, Skylar Edwards, is found murdered in Buckstown, Alabama, a corrupt sheriff arrests the last person to see her alive, Andy Dubois. It doesn't seem to matter to anyone that Andy is innocent.

A small town boiling with rage

Everyone in Buckstown believes Andy is guilty. He has no hope of a fair trial. And the local defense attorney assigned to represent him has disappeared.

A former con-artist

Hot shot New York lawyer Eddie Flynn travels south to fight fire with fire. He plans to destroy the prosecutors case, find the real killer and save Andy from the electric chair.

But the murders are just beginning.

Is Eddie Flynn next?]]> 403 Steve Cavanagh Jasmine 0 to-read 4.39 2021
author: Steve Cavanagh
name: Jasmine
average rating: 4.39
book published: 2021
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/05/01
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 176443494 Sin Eater returns with a rousing and propulsive novel based on the astonishing true story of the first female Pinkerton detective whose next assignment could end the Civil War.

Kate Warne is many things--the country’s first female detective, a Pinkerton agent, and a union spy.

It’s August 1863, and her latest assignment could finally end the bloody war and bring the fractured United States together again. All she has to do is win the trust of Confederate spy and socialite Rose Greenhow. But with Rose well aware of Kate’s working-class background and belief in abolitionism, it seems an impossible task. Worst, Kate has secrets that make her vulnerable, such as her forbidden love affair with a colleague.

With time running out, Kate faces not only the moral and political divides between herself and Rose but also the ones she made in her own heart and life. Can she make the difficult decision over which divides are worth crossing? Or will she fail the most important assignment of her career?]]> 256 Megan Campisi 1668024853 Jasmine 0 to-read 3.34 2024
author: Megan Campisi
name: Jasmine
average rating: 3.34
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/30
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 214151404 When a teen has an unexpected vision about a future murder, he must juggle newfound interest from the supernatural community with trying to prevent the murder from happening in this new romantic fantasy from New York Times bestselling author F.T. Lukens.

Tired of being known as the artsy oddball, fifteen-year-old Cam Reynolds hopes to fly under the radar when he changes high schools as a sophomore. It shouldn’t be too hard, considering he’s a human going to school with kids who have super-cool paranormal powers, like his best friend and witch, Al, and longtime werewolf crush, Miguel.

Then Cam has a psychic glimpse of the future in front of most of the student body, seeing a gruesomely murdered teen girl from the point of view of the killer. When Cam comes to, he knows two things: someone he goes to school with is a future murderer and his life is about to change. No longer a mere human but a clairvoyant, one of the rarest of supernatural beings, Cam finds himself at the center of attention for the first time.

As the most powerful supernatural factions in the city court Cam and his gift, he’ll have to work with his friends, both old and new, to figure out who he can trust. Because the clock is ticking, and Cam and his friends must identify the girl in the vision, find her potential killer, and prevent the murder from happening. Or the next murder Cam sees might be his own.]]> 368 F.T. Lukens 1665950943 Jasmine 0 to-read 4.18 2025
author: F.T. Lukens
name: Jasmine
average rating: 4.18
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/30
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 209141997 An illustrated guide to lunar survival for kids from rocket scientist Joalda Morancy, timed to coincide with the upcoming NASA Artemis moon missions.

Humans are heading back to the moon. But once we get there, how on the moon will we stay alive? In this practical guide, future astronauts will learn how to build underground cities in lava tubes, shield themselves from razor-sharp moon dust, and grow the food they’ll need to survive life away from our home planet.

As well as practical tips, Morancy lifts a lid on some of the coolest developments in lunar science—including the possibility of building underground cities in lava tubes and the giant catapult that could be used to get stuff back to Earth.

Like Andy Weir’s The Martian everything in this space book is based on real, groundbreaking science. And no one is better placed to write when they’re not writing kids�� books, Joalda Morancy is building the lunar lander the Artemis missions will use to take astronauts—including the first woman and first person of color—to the surface!

Hilarious illustrations by award-winning artist Aaron Cushley, including graphic novel elements, convey the wonder and excitement of future space travel and give this book a key point of difference from other solar system books.

Don’t leave Earth without it!]]> 48 Joalda Morancy 1684494478 Jasmine 0 currently-reading 4.09
author: Joalda Morancy
name: Jasmine
average rating: 4.09
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/29
shelves: currently-reading
review:

]]> 205181309 14 Richard Scarry 0593808223 Jasmine 5
Thank you Random House Kids for the opportunity to read and review!]]> 4.00
author: Richard Scarry
name: Jasmine
average rating: 4.00
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2025/04/28
date added: 2025/04/29
shelves: board-book, from-publisher, picture-books
review:
Read for my toddler's bedtime. This story was so much fun to read. As I read along, my toddler press the sound to hear the noise the parts of the story was supposed to make. This story followed a police officer chasing a reckless driver named Dingo Dog! Officer yells Stop and my toddler pressed the stop button and the sound of a kid yelling Stop played out. There are other sounds along with the story like pumpkin car sound, construction site sound, steamroller sound, ambulance sound, etc. This book was full of action and adventures! Great illustrations!

Thank you Random House Kids for the opportunity to read and review!
]]> 215805940 32 Richard Scarry 0593898753 Jasmine 5 from-publisher, picture-books
Thank you Random House Kids for the opportunity to read and review!]]> 5.00
author: Richard Scarry
name: Jasmine
average rating: 5.00
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2025/04/28
date added: 2025/04/29
shelves: from-publisher, picture-books
review:
My kindergartener was able to read this book! She read it for her dad and he was happy. This book is a great father's day gift! She also read it for me. We both loved the book and the illustrations! The book started with "I love you, Daddy!" Then go on to state that daddy works hard for the family doing different jobs like firefighters, doctors, police officers, bakers, etc.. but make time for family too like putting kids to bed, telling jokes, flying kites, etc.. Inside front and back covers of the book has pictures of daddy animals with each job. Would have been helpful if there's a name of the job at each picture because we can't tell..

Thank you Random House Kids for the opportunity to read and review!
]]> 203166754 From the best-selling author of A Monster Calls, this funny, wise middle-grade series explodes every stereotype—including what it means to be a hero—in a brilliant reptilian take on surviving school.

When Principal Wombat makes monitor lizards Zeke, Daniel, and Alicia hall monitors, Zeke gives up on popularity at his new school. Brought in as part of a district blending program, the monitor lizards were mostly ignored before. Reptiles aren’t bullied any more than other students, but they do stick out among zebras, ostriches, and elk. Why would Principal Wombat make them hall monitors? Alicia explains that it’s because mammals are afraid of being yelled (hissed) at by reptiles. The principal’s just a good general, deploying her resources. Zeke balks, until he gets on the wrong side of Pelicarnassus. More than a bully, the pelican is a famed international supervillain—at least when his mother isn’t looking. Maybe the halls are a war zone, and the school needs a hero. Too bad it isn’t . . . Zeke. Smart, relatable, and densely illustrated in black and white for graphic appeal, this middle-grade series debut by a revered author returns to his themes of grief, bullying, and negotiating differences—but with zeal and comic relief to spare.]]> 208 Patrick Ness 1536235938 Jasmine 0 to-read 3.99 2024
author: Patrick Ness
name: Jasmine
average rating: 3.99
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/29
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 203771633 In this twisting, page-turning read, shipwrecked teen girls from opposing sides of a long war must find common ground in order to survive.

When the Burying Ground goes down in neutral waters, it sends the delegations from two warring nations—and the peace treaty they were about to sign—to the bottom of the ocean. The only survivors are a pair of teen girls: Cora, daughter of a Duran newspaper man, and Vivienne, lady’s maid to an Ariminthian princess. Neither has known a time when war between their two countries did not rage, but now they must learn to trust each other if they are to find sustenance, avoid dangerous pirates, and have any hope of rescue from the remote island they washed up on. However, in the midst of a conflict steeped in fierce national identity, propaganda, disinformation, and radicalization, finding a common path forward seems nearly impossible, for both Cora and Vivienne and their respective countries. But when the teens�� politically charged rescue seems likely to extend the war, Cora and Vivienne realize they do have a shared purpose: peace. If only it isn’t too late.]]> 288 J. Anderson Coats 1536232386 Jasmine 0 to-read 3.52 2024
author: J. Anderson Coats
name: Jasmine
average rating: 3.52
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/29
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 203771651 Writing in the tradition of Pinocchio, Hans Christian Anderson Award winner David Almond brings his ineffable touch to a warm and wistful story that shows anything is possible with imagination and trust.

“You’re a mystery, aren’t you, Puppet? But isn’t everything a mystery? Not just you, but every single thing that exists.��

What should a puppet master do when he’s old and alone and all his puppets are gone? Silvester decides to make one last puppet. But this one is different. When the old man speaks to him, Puppet speaks back. And then he starts to walk . . . While Silvester shows Puppet the town, the playground, and other wonders the world holds, Puppet in turn helps Silvester to make a new friend and share his puppet-making skills with the next generation. With themes of compassion and creativity, threaded with David Almond’s inimitable humor, this wonder-filled story of creation and the circle of life, illustrated with wordless black-and-white spreads by award-winning artist Lizzy Stewart, is destined to become a modern-day classic.]]> 240 David Almond 1536239178 Jasmine 0 to-read 3.89 2024
author: David Almond
name: Jasmine
average rating: 3.89
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/29
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 203771671 The Princess in Black may know how to handle all kinds of monsters, but a kitten set on destruction? Me-OW!

Duchess Wigtower had heard that pets are fun, but all her kitten has gotten her is nine lives' worth of problems. Eeeeek! It’s time for someone else to deal with this catastrophe. Princess Magnolia is thrilled when a kitten lands on her doorstep, but just as she’s about to play with Plumpkins (or should it be Hugmaster Floof?) the monster alarm goes off. When Princess Magnolia returns to her castle, her furry companion has carved up the wallpaper! In fact, each time Princess Magnolia leaves to help the Goat Avenger fight a very grouchy monster, her feline friend wreaks havoc. Has the Princess in Black finally met her match? Ten years after she first donned her cape, the Princess in Black returns for a purrfectly hilarious entry to the New York Times best-selling series.]]> 96 Shannon Hale 1536234095 Jasmine 0 to-read 4.16
author: Shannon Hale
name: Jasmine
average rating: 4.16
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/29
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 145624991
Just a date . . . or a twist of fate?
 When it comes to love and art, Rooney Gao believes in signs. Most of all, she believes in the Chinese legend that everyone is tied to their one true love by the red string of fate. And that belief has inspired her career as an artist, as well as the large art installations she makes with ( obviously ) red string. That is until artist’s block strikes and Rooney begins to question everything. But then fate leads her to the perfect guy . . . Jack Liu is perfect. He’s absurdly smart, successful, handsome, and after one enchanting New York night—under icy February skies and fueled by fried dumplings—all signs point to destiny. Only Jack doesn’t believe. And after their magical date, it looks like they might be lost to each other forever . . . until they’re given one more chance to reconnect. But can Rooney convince a reluctant skeptic to take a leap of fate?
���ձ�> 352 Lauren Kung Jessen 1538710285 Jasmine 4
A cute one with humor. Rooney believe in Fate while Jack believe in choices. Rooney go with the flow and let fate take her wherever and ended up wherever so she will be surprise. Jack prefer to plan and know his destination ahead of time.

Who knows if through fate they met at the print shop. And later at the mutual friend's party. And later through work. But they ran into each other and ended up hanging out.

Thank you ReadForeverPub for the opportunity to read and review. I listened to an audiobook via Libby App and Hachette Audio.]]> 3.57 2024
author: Lauren Kung Jessen
name: Jasmine
average rating: 3.57
book published: 2024
rating: 4
read at: 2025/04/28
date added: 2025/04/28
shelves: audiobooks, from-publisher, contemporary
review:
The audiobook was good. Lots and lots of art talk because the main character and her mom are artists. Resisting love isn't my favorite kind of read. The two characters dragged it out as long as possible to focus on their careers but it makes me lose patience with them.

A cute one with humor. Rooney believe in Fate while Jack believe in choices. Rooney go with the flow and let fate take her wherever and ended up wherever so she will be surprise. Jack prefer to plan and know his destination ahead of time.

Who knows if through fate they met at the print shop. And later at the mutual friend's party. And later through work. But they ran into each other and ended up hanging out.

Thank you ReadForeverPub for the opportunity to read and review. I listened to an audiobook via Libby App and Hachette Audio.
]]> 214151588 In this transporting and suspenseful companion to the New York Times bestselling Once There Was, Marjan travels around the globe in search of a mythical bird in terrible danger, whose fate could determine the future of the world.

Marjan Dastani is successfully leading a double life. Only a few people know that when she’s not in school, she travels the world taking care of mythical beasts, sent on missions by a shadowy organization known as The Fells.

In an adventure that takes her across continents and connects her with the wildest of mythic beasts around the globe, Marjan must track down the fabled Bird of a Thousand Stories before someone with more nefarious plans finds it. But the more closely she connects with the world’s mythical creatures, the more danger she’s in of losing her friendships—and all that tethers her to the life she’s known.]]> 352 Kiyash Monsef 1665928530 Jasmine 0 to-read 4.12 2025
author: Kiyash Monsef
name: Jasmine
average rating: 4.12
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/28
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 217247966 Caldecott Medalist Jason Chin charts the thrilling saga of an island community’s brush with a category three hurricane, and the cutting-edge science that helps them prepare.

It’s a beautiful day on Hatteras Island, North Carolina. But while all seems calm now, a hurricane is barreling across the Atlantic, and everyone is wondering when it will hit the U.S. coast. And where.

Night and day, meteorologists use satellites to monitor the storm. Brave pilots fly directly into the tempest, dodging lightning bolts to gather crucial data. Back on the island, families board up windows, drag furniture upstairs, and stock survival kits to prepare for what may come.

From its dramatic opening, Hurricane alternates between striking maps charting the hurricane’s progress and daily life on the island.

Hurricane is at once a fascinating view into a natural disaster and a reassuring survey of the tools we use to mitigate the damage. As climate change makes hurricanes ever more destructive, this engaging and rigorous book is perfect for classrooms, and for families making their own safety plans. Jason Chin’s breathtaking artwork and clear, compelling text make Hurricane a gripping read for all ages. At the end, find even more information about hurricanes, with visual aids for deeper understanding.]]> 48 Jason Chin 0823458490 Jasmine 0 to-read 4.28
author: Jason Chin
name: Jasmine
average rating: 4.28
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/28
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 220161280 Years after her best friend mysteriously disappeared from a remote New England island, a young woman returns in search of answers in this atmospheric and scintillating thriller from Jessa Maxwell, nationally bestselling author of the “deliciously entertaining�� (Sarah Penner, New York Times bestselling author) The Golden Spoon.

Orla O’Connor hasn’t been to the isolated New England enclave of Hadley Island since she graduated from high school a decade ago. As a teenager, her best friend Alice disappeared from its shores without a trace—but with plenty of rumors.

Now, Orla returns to her family’s beachfront home to clean it out before her parents sell it. The island and her best friend’s house next door, abandoned after her family left in grief, are stirring up memories she would like to avoid. Then there are the locals, always gossiping and watching Orla’s every move. Worst of all, David, Orla’s childhood crush and son of a wealthy Manhattan family, is back for the summer with his new, impossibly pretty girlfriend, Faith.

Faith suspects that David is going to propose but as soon as she settles into his family’s sprawling Hadley Island estate, she feels out of place. She anticipated a luxurious summer of fun and romance, but David is never around—lured into business conversations with his entrepreneur father from dawn to dusk. With nothing else to do, Faith begins to investigate the island’s dark past, curious about what really happened to Alice all those years ago.

Meanwhile, local Henry hasn’t left his house since the young girl went missing, in an attempt to let the accusations against him die down. Except they never have. For years, Henry has had an endless supply of time to pursue his only hobby, watching the island from his telescope and recording the activities of its inhabitants. But Orla’s return has shaken him and lately he’s been seeing strange shadowy figures walking on the beach in the middle of the night and a light on in the upstairs window of the long-abandoned house of the missing girl.

When there’s another disappearance on the island, all three find themselves pulled into an eerie and twisty mystery that will haunt them for the rest of their lives.]]> 288 Jessa Maxwell 1668070391 Jasmine 0 to-read 3.64
author: Jessa Maxwell
name: Jasmine
average rating: 3.64
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/28
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 111672517
Everyone knows attics are the best place to play hide and seek on a rainy day. That is, unless your stomach is rumbling with a bubbly gas that you absolutely cannot keep in. When Baby sister lets one sneaky fart slip out, she betrays her hiding spot and begins the most phenomenal fart fest this attic has ever seen��

A battle of the good, the bad and the stinky, young readers will surely revisit Cute Toot time and again, improving their various mouth fart sounds with each read.]]> 40 Breanna J. McDaniel 1250881293 Jasmine 5 from-publisher, picture-books
---://///------

Read this book for my toddler's nap time and bedtime today. Two sisters were playing hide and seek in the attic. Baby sister couldn't hide well because she was having the gas problem. She couldn't hold it in any longer. The fart came out and she was scared hoping big sister couldn't hear. She moved to a new hiding location but the fart came out at each place. When big sister done counting, she easily found baby sister. They both laughed at the fart until big sister accidentally fart too. Baby sister got to laugh at big sister's fart. Then they were having the farting contest. My toddler enjoyed this story a lot. We have read it more than twice! The illustrations are fun!

Thank you MacKidsBooks for the opportunity to read and review!]]> 3.29
author: Breanna J. McDaniel
name: Jasmine
average rating: 3.29
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2025/04/27
date added: 2025/04/27
shelves: from-publisher, picture-books
review:
Re-read for my toddler's bedtime. We loved the humor.

---://///------

Read this book for my toddler's nap time and bedtime today. Two sisters were playing hide and seek in the attic. Baby sister couldn't hide well because she was having the gas problem. She couldn't hold it in any longer. The fart came out and she was scared hoping big sister couldn't hear. She moved to a new hiding location but the fart came out at each place. When big sister done counting, she easily found baby sister. They both laughed at the fart until big sister accidentally fart too. Baby sister got to laugh at big sister's fart. Then they were having the farting contest. My toddler enjoyed this story a lot. We have read it more than twice! The illustrations are fun!

Thank you MacKidsBooks for the opportunity to read and review!
]]> 213243951 384 Jo Nesbø 0593803612 Jasmine 0 to-read 3.85 2024
author: Jo Nesbø
name: Jasmine
average rating: 3.85
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/27
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 207567874
When a girl gets SO MAD at her dad, she starts to storm around and slam doors, but soon realizes she doesn’t really like being mad. She tries everything she can think of to be less mad. Counting. Taking deep breaths. Drawing some pictures. But it is so hard to NOT be mad! A long day of being mad really wears the girl out, though, and that makes her sad. And, strangely enough, when the girl is sad, her dad is pretty good at making her feel better!

Author-illustrator Janie Hao uses a unique interactive approach to explore the topic of anger in this engaging picture book. The lift-the-flap format allows the spreads to expand, making them big enough to contain the full size and many shapes of the girl’s feelings. Hao uses bold images such as lightning bolts, squiggly lines and spirals; large, emphatic thick type; and the girl’s expressive body and face to make the energy and depth of her feelings jump off the pages. The universally relatable topic is approached in a simple, yet impactful, way, and the child-centered narrative is sure to make this a favorite read-aloud. This book supports emotional intelligence in young children by validating their feelings, offers specific strategies for how to identify and manage anger in healthy ways, and portrays a positive parent-child relationship.]]> 32 Janie Hao 1525310267 Jasmine 5 from-publisher, picture-books
--/::---/:;;-////----

Read for my toddler's as a story time. This book followed a story of a little girl and her dad. The little girl was mad at her dad for asking her to eat her vegetables. She got mad and the page of the book opened out very long to express how mad she felt. Her dad was mad at her too for having attitude. The next page she slammed the door. She didn't like being mad and attempted to do many activities to get her mind out of being mad. She count, she did cartwheels, she drew, and more. After that she felt sad but when she's feeling down, her dad came to make her feel better. So in the end, she thought her dad wasn't so bad. A cute story. Definitely one for Father's Day! Great illustrations!

Thank you Kids Can Press for the opportunity to read and review.]]> 3.53
author: Janie Hao
name: Jasmine
average rating: 3.53
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2025/04/26
date added: 2025/04/26
shelves: from-publisher, picture-books
review:
Reread for my toddler. Loved it

--/::---/:;;-////----

Read for my toddler's as a story time. This book followed a story of a little girl and her dad. The little girl was mad at her dad for asking her to eat her vegetables. She got mad and the page of the book opened out very long to express how mad she felt. Her dad was mad at her too for having attitude. The next page she slammed the door. She didn't like being mad and attempted to do many activities to get her mind out of being mad. She count, she did cartwheels, she drew, and more. After that she felt sad but when she's feeling down, her dad came to make her feel better. So in the end, she thought her dad wasn't so bad. A cute story. Definitely one for Father's Day! Great illustrations!

Thank you Kids Can Press for the opportunity to read and review.
]]> 203360121
Squirrel and Bird are back, and this time it's winter! But squirrel has never seen snow before. Will he like it? You bet he will! Except, just as Squirrel starts to get used to the snow, it disappears. Is there a snow thief on the loose?

With vibrant art and captivating characters, the magic of winter is captured beautifully on each page as readers tag along Squirrel's forest adventure. Is there truly a snow thief on the loose, or is something else going on in Squirrel's forest? A perfect exploration of change—both seasonal, and the anxiety that change sometimes causes. Bonus material explaining about the changing of the seasons. Poised to be a new fall classic.

Pick up The Snow Thief if you are looking

A classic read for ages 4 and upBack to school books, ideal for your classroom, homeschool curriculum, and more!Seasonal and educational stories about the changing seasons]]> 32 Alice Hemming 1464226784 Jasmine 5 from-publisher, picture-books
---::/--:;;/--//---

Read this book for my toddler's bedtime. A great story and illustrations! Squirrel was surprised when he popped his head out of his tree to find the ground was all white and cold. He asked Bird where the grass went. Bird, being calm and reasonable answered Squirrel that it was snow. Bird invited Squirrel to come out to play because snow can be fun. Squirrel wanted to stay in to keep warm. Bird tossed a snowball into Squirrel's home. Squirrel asked what it was and how it got into his home. Bird invited Squirrel to a snowball fight. Squirrel tossed his first snowball at Bird and agreed that snow was fun and came out to play. Squirrel noticed about smoke on his breath and the icy patches of ground. The next day, Squirrel prepared himself to play with snow some more. But when he went down from his tree, he was amazed to find that the snow was gone. He screamed for Bird about the Snow Thief!

A fun book in time for this year's rare snow we recently experienced. Fun illustration as well. The end of the book has nonfiction explanations of how snow occurred, the color of snow, snowflakes, smoke breath, etc..

Thank you Sourcebooks Kids for the opportunity to read and review.]]> 4.07 2024
author: Alice Hemming
name: Jasmine
average rating: 4.07
book published: 2024
rating: 5
read at: 2025/04/26
date added: 2025/04/26
shelves: from-publisher, picture-books
review:
Re-read for my toddler as a story time. We loved it.

---::/--:;;/--//---

Read this book for my toddler's bedtime. A great story and illustrations! Squirrel was surprised when he popped his head out of his tree to find the ground was all white and cold. He asked Bird where the grass went. Bird, being calm and reasonable answered Squirrel that it was snow. Bird invited Squirrel to come out to play because snow can be fun. Squirrel wanted to stay in to keep warm. Bird tossed a snowball into Squirrel's home. Squirrel asked what it was and how it got into his home. Bird invited Squirrel to a snowball fight. Squirrel tossed his first snowball at Bird and agreed that snow was fun and came out to play. Squirrel noticed about smoke on his breath and the icy patches of ground. The next day, Squirrel prepared himself to play with snow some more. But when he went down from his tree, he was amazed to find that the snow was gone. He screamed for Bird about the Snow Thief!

A fun book in time for this year's rare snow we recently experienced. Fun illustration as well. The end of the book has nonfiction explanations of how snow occurred, the color of snow, snowflakes, smoke breath, etc..

Thank you Sourcebooks Kids for the opportunity to read and review.
]]> 214537761 From the creator of Millennial Money and the international bestselling author of Financial Freedom comes a comprehensive blueprint detailing how to start, build, buy, scale, and sell a business that expands your life

There’s never been a better time to become an entrepreneur. As wages stagnate and traditional jobs lose their luster, people are eager to be their own bosses and to step out of the grind. But where to begin? What are the real opportunities? How do you avoid becoming consumed by your business, with no room for yourself? Or, even better, how do you use your business to create more peace and freedom in your life?
    Grant Sabatier has been through it all, and in this hands-on guide, he takes you through each step of the process—from finding the business that works for you, to scaling as big as you want, to selling your business—all without writing a business plan, needing investors, or sacrificing the things that are most important in your life. After all, you run your business. It should not run you.
    Unlike “get rich quick�� books, Inner Entrepreneur is truly comprehensive. This book will give you the keys to building wealth, but will also help you every step of the way, leaving no topic unexplored and offering resources and inspiring stories from people who have been there before you.
    Whether you’re just starting out or you’re a seasoned pro looking for advice on your next move, Inner Entrepreneur will help you build a business and a life you love.]]> 416 Grant Sabatier 0593543572 Jasmine 0 to-read 3.40
author: Grant Sabatier
name: Jasmine
average rating: 3.40
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/26
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 203073876 Six students at Blackwood Academy, an enigmatic boarding school located at the edge of the afterlife, must compete for the once-in-eternity chance to change their fate—or risk remaining stuck in purgatory forever. An unputdownable debut full of hairpin twists, shock betrayals and world-defying love, for fans of The Atlas Six.

Welcome to Blackwood Academy: the legendary school located on the fringes of the afterlife. Once a pupil enters the academy’s arched gates, there is no way out . . . except for the Decennial, a once-in-a-decade celebration in which a single, worthy student is tested and given a choice: Graduate and join Blackwood’s magical elite, or cross over to the mysterious Other Side.

This time, though, the rules have changed. This Decennial isn’t a celebration—it’s a competition. And there can only be one victor.

Two academic archrivals, whose strange connection blurs the lines between obsession and hate.

One girl driven solely by ambition, and another plagued by memories of the love she lost.

And a charming playboy who never cared for anyone—until he met the academy’s newest student.

Each of these six students has their own motivation to win . . . and their own secret to hide. But what none of them know? They aren’t the only ones playing Blackwood’s game. And if they lose. . . some fates are worse than death.]]> 512 I.V. Marie 0008783713 Jasmine 0 to-read 4.50 2025
author: I.V. Marie
name: Jasmine
average rating: 4.50
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/26
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 220427988 Publishers Weekly

WHEN YOU'RE INSIDE, THE WHOLE WORLD IS WATCHING.
WHEN YOU'RE OUTSIDE, YOU'RE NOTHING.

In SNOWGLOBE, Chobahm agreed to enter Snowglobe and take on Haeri's identity. Within the domed city's walls, she finally had the existence she'd always dreamed of. But life in Snowglobe wasn't quite what Chobahm expected.

Following on from the epic cliffhanger, SNOWGLOBE 2 picks up where we left off. It follows the Haeri girls on their fight against the creators of Snowglobe and the Yibonn family. But who can they trust?

With literal rains of fire, questionable geothermal activity, hypnotism, and ever-changing loyalties SNOWGLOBE 2 promises an thrilling conclusion to the stand-out duology.]]> 438 Soyoung Park 024168109X Jasmine 0 to-read 4.22 2021
author: Soyoung Park
name: Jasmine
average rating: 4.22
book published: 2021
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/26
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 211998948 Two kingdoms on the brink of battle. One prophesied empress to unite them, who finds herself caught between two princes, and the fact that love alone may not stop the coming war. A thrilling romantasy from the bestselling author of To Gaze Upon Wicked Gods.

"Beautifully written and brimming with defiance."
—Xiran Jay Zhao, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Iron Widow

*The first edition hardcover of The Nightblood Prince will feature stunning decorative sprayed edges!*

Two princes. One prophecy. A fate she cannot outrun.

The night Fei was born, a prophecy was made: she would one day become the Empress of All Empresses.

Torn from her family as a child and raised in the palace to one day marry the Crown Prince of the most powerful empire in the land, Fei has only ever known loneliness. When the opportunity arises to seize her own destiny for the first time in her life, Fei sets out to hunt a legendary tiger, knowing it might cost her everything. What she doesn’t expect is to fall under the mercy of Yexue, the beautiful runaway prince from a rival kingdom. Blessed by the night, harboring a dangerous magic, and capable of commanding an army of deadly vampires, Yexue could be the key to Fei gaining more than just her freedom.

But to outrun destiny, Fei must spark a wave of events that will change the world as she knows it. Torn between two princes and plagued by nightmares of bloodshed, she finds that the stars might be more inescapable—and more irresistible—than she ever considered before. . . .]]> Molly X. Chang Jasmine 0 to-read 4.49 2025
author: Molly X. Chang
name: Jasmine
average rating: 4.49
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/26
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 219446158 A breathtaking romantic fantasy inspired by Beauty and the Beast about a girl who paints the future and a cursed dragon lord, bound by love and deception in a plot to bring down the gods.

From the New York Times bestselling author of Six Crimson Cranes!

Truyan Saigas didn't choose to become a con artist, but after her father is lost at sea, it’s up to her to support her mother and two younger sisters. A gifted art forger, Tru has the unique ability to paint the future, but even such magic is not enough to put her family back together again, or stave off the gangsters demanding payment in blood for her mother’s gambling debts.

Left with few options, Tru agrees to a marriage contract with a mysterious dragon lord. He offers a fresh start for her mother and sisters and elusive answers about her father's disappearance, but in exchange, she must join him in his desolate undersea palace. And she must assist him in a plot to infiltrate the tyrannical Dragon King's inner circle, painting a future so treasonous, it could upend both the mortal and immortal realms. . . .]]> 483 Elizabeth Lim 0593650638 Jasmine 0 to-read 4.49 2025
author: Elizabeth Lim
name: Jasmine
average rating: 4.49
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/26
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 219848322 When a stock-pile of confiscated classroom items go missing, (self-appointed) seventh grade PI Maya is on the case. From the New York Times bestelling author of Kill the Boy Band comes a whip-smart middle grade debut and the start of a sharp cul-du-sac crime-solving series.

9:48 AM. Math class. Marlowe Middle School.

Life isn't easy on the streets, er, hallways of Marlowe Middle School. Luckily, private eye Maya Mendoza never stops paying attention. She knows who is passing notes in class. Spots which teacher wore shoes a half-size too tight. And she certainly notices when her former best friend Jordan suddenly stops talking to her. 

Then, the legendary Contraband Closet is robbed. Every Hotwheels car, spray paint canister, bouncy ball, and other prized possession teachers have collected since the dawn of time are seemingly lost forever--including an item of Jordan's. Suddenly, Maya sees a case that may set things back to the way it used to be because contraband--and friendships--don't vanish into thin air...right?

A wise-cracking start to a new mystery series from New York Times bestselling author Goldy Moldavsky.]]> 224 Goldy Moldavsky 0593813766 Jasmine 0 to-read 4.17
author: Goldy Moldavsky
name: Jasmine
average rating: 4.17
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/26
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 219334752 A high school field hockey star must choose between her love of the game and her new, distractingly beautiful rival in this queer YA romance perfect for fans of She Drives Me Crazy and Cleat Cute!

Evelyn was raised to see field hockey as war.

Before she could write her own name, her family’s legacy on the field was already spelled out. Every step Evelyn takes toward glory is within a footprint her mother left behind. And no step matters more than this next one, with Evelyn about to lead her varsity team into their final battle season. Evelyn is beyond ready to score the Nationals title and win the critical scholarship to her mom’s alma mater that comes with it.

This year, she’s out for blood, and nothing can stand in her way...

...except for Rosa Alvarez, the highly talented new recruit on her biggest rival’s team.

After a humiliating homecoming game and follow-up prank leave the two enemies in a stalemate, they grudgingly strike a deal to help each other overcome their weaknesses on the field. But the more time Evelyn spends with Rosa, the more she finds herself casting her hardened armor aside, until she begins to wonder what life might be like if she left the battlefield behind and fought for love instead.]]> 320 Kit Rosewater 0593898451 Jasmine 0 to-read 3.66
author: Kit Rosewater
name: Jasmine
average rating: 3.66
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/26
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 53190328 192 Umi Takase Jasmine 0 to-read 3.86 2019
author: Umi Takase
name: Jasmine
average rating: 3.86
book published: 2019
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/26
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 213197076 An endearing story about a girl’s efforts to spot an owl from the Caldecott Medal winning creator of Wolf in the Snow. This gorgeous picture book that encourages patience and perseverance will resonate with readers of all ages who have longed to see one of these elusive creatures in the natural world.

When will I find you?
Where could you be?
What will it take?
To see an owl.

Silent and wide-eyed, owls are hidden creatures of the night. Janie has always dreamed of finding one. She searches everywhere for signs of an owl �� on the open prairie for short-eared owls, on the beach for snowy owls, and for great horned owls in the woods near her home. But months go by, and she sees no owls. She wonders, what will it take to see an owl?

Her teacher, Mr. Koji, a fellow bird-lover, shares that he, too, waited a long time to see an owl. He assures her, “If you are very quiet and very patient, and if you look very close, you might just find them.”��

When the snow begins to fall, Janie and her mother head into the woods again, and as she looks carefully, hidden high up in the trees, what she sees is pure magic.

From Matthew Cordell, the creator of Wolf in the Snow that was awarded the Caldecott Medal, comes this beautiful story about quiet perseverance that will resonate with anyone who has experienced the anticipation of discovering a rare treasure in the wild.]]> 40 Matthew Cordell 0593649893 Jasmine 5 from-publisher, picture-books
Thank you Random House Kids for the opportunity to read and review!]]> 4.47
author: Matthew Cordell
name: Jasmine
average rating: 4.47
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2025/04/25
date added: 2025/04/26
shelves: from-publisher, picture-books
review:
Read for my toddler's bedtime. This story followed a little girl who loved owls. She draws pages upon pages of owls. She thought of owls and dreamed of owls. Her teacher, Mr. Koji also loved owls. He has pictures, drawings, and maps of his sightings. This little girl is a birder too. She went on adventures with her mom to look for owls. It's not easy to find owls because they are animals of the night. She took careful notes of what her teacher taught and of her own exploration. She went on walks with her mom at night with a flashlight. She went to many locations. Eventually she made the sighting but it was through hard work, determination, and perseverance. She's a good role model for all kids. An excellent book for kids!

Thank you Random House Kids for the opportunity to read and review!
]]> 204594105
This clever picture book series from author and illustrator Elina Ellis provides child-friendly introductions to animal identification, while also serving as a subtle reminder about the disappearance of endangered animals. In each story, Alex shares her knowledge of an endangered animal, while the characters struggle to find one in the wild. With this story, young children will love outsmarting Atticus as they shout “No!�� every time he asks if he’s found an elusive tiger. Spreads from Alex’s field guide are loaded with tiger facts. Further information about tigers and the other animals that appear in the book are also included. This book promotes critical thinking and age-appropriate conversations about perspective and drawing premature conclusions. It offers excellent tie-ins to life science lessons on the characteristics and diversity of living things.]]> 32 Elina Ellis 1525306758 Jasmine 5
Thank you Kids Can Press for the opportunity to read and review!]]> 4.54 2024
author: Elina Ellis
name: Jasmine
average rating: 4.54
book published: 2024
rating: 5
read at: 2025/04/17
date added: 2025/04/26
shelves: from-publisher, picture-books, nonfiction
review:
Read for my toddler's bedtime. Readers followed Alex and Atticus. Atticus doesn't know how a Tiger looks like. Alex has her handy dandy Tiger journal. As they went out to explore, Alex read from her journal that tigers have stripes. Atticus pointed out to zebra and numbat and stripy cats and asked if they were tigers. Alex read from her journal that tigers have big teeth. Atticus pointed at shark, hippo, warthog, and walrus for their big teeth if they were tigers. While exploring, there are pages of facts about tigers, the sounds they make, what they eat, whether there are any tigers that are endangered, etc. This book is excellent for kids! I would have preferred the names of the other animals Atticus mistaken for tigers be next to their pictures within the story instead of a list of mugshot at the end of the book. However, I enjoyed the illustrations. Great story! Will have to read again!

Thank you Kids Can Press for the opportunity to read and review!
]]> 8205645 24 JoAnn Early Macken 0836848918 Jasmine 5
Borrowed from her school.]]> 5.00 2005
author: JoAnn Early Macken
name: Jasmine
average rating: 5.00
book published: 2005
rating: 5
read at: 2025/04/23
date added: 2025/04/26
shelves: library, picture-books, nonfiction
review:
Read to help my kindergartener with her advanced reading test at school. Good story on lakes and animals living by the lakes.

Borrowed from her school.
]]> 207567829
“You can feel wind �� but you can’t see it. What is wind?�� This exploration of different types of wind pairs lyrical descriptions of wind types with accessible, informational sidebars about each. The whimsical narrative uses metaphor to help readers visualize wind’s characteristics: “Wind is a butterfly �� fluffing flower petals and ruffling riverbank grasses.�� Informative bubbles on each page compliment these descriptions with short explanations of each wind type, which range from a light breeze to a hurricane. Evocative illustrations further bring the text to life in this fascinating introduction to the ever-changing wind.

Author Debra Kempf Shumaker uses figurative language and metaphors to capture the imagination of readers as they learn about wind. Her imagery will inspire readers to find their own words to represent the world around them, and in particular to answer the question at the end of the book: “How would you describe the wind today?�� The breezy illustrations by award-winning, bestselling artist Josée Bisaillon help readers feel the movement of the air. With its easy-to-understand depictions of the types of wind, this is a perfect STEAM pick for lessons on daily and seasonal weather. More information about types of wind, the Beaufort scale and a list of resources for further learning are at the back of the book.]]> 32 Debra Kempf Shumaker 1525308750 Jasmine 5
This book compared wind is like a dance. Slow dance is like calming wind like a breeze. There's the definition for breeze and an example of what kids can do with a breeze. A breeze kids can blow bubbles. A stronger breeze kids can fly kites. Another page explained wind is like playing sports. There's definition for headwind and tailwind. Another page compared wind is comparable to an excited puppy. This wind is called a gale where twigs may break and leaves get tossed around. The wind increased speed and destruction to become blizzard, derecho, hurricane, and eventually tornado. There are tips on what people can do when the wind becomes severe and destructive. The definitions were helpful. I also loved further explanation at the end of the book about each type of wind along with the measurements of wind.

Excellent story and illustrations!

Thank you Kids Can Press for the opportunity to read and review!
]]> 4.39
author: Debra Kempf Shumaker
name: Jasmine
average rating: 4.39
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2025/04/26
date added: 2025/04/26
shelves: from-publisher, nonfiction, picture-books
review:
Read for my toddler as a story time. This book is excellent. Fiction along with nonfiction. My new favorite kind of books for kids!

This book compared wind is like a dance. Slow dance is like calming wind like a breeze. There's the definition for breeze and an example of what kids can do with a breeze. A breeze kids can blow bubbles. A stronger breeze kids can fly kites. Another page explained wind is like playing sports. There's definition for headwind and tailwind. Another page compared wind is comparable to an excited puppy. This wind is called a gale where twigs may break and leaves get tossed around. The wind increased speed and destruction to become blizzard, derecho, hurricane, and eventually tornado. There are tips on what people can do when the wind becomes severe and destructive. The definitions were helpful. I also loved further explanation at the end of the book about each type of wind along with the measurements of wind.

Excellent story and illustrations!

Thank you Kids Can Press for the opportunity to read and review!

]]> 25324132
AUGGIE & ME is a new side to the WONDER story: three new chapters from three different characters - bully Julian, oldest friend Christopher and classmate Charlotte - giving an insight into how Auggie has touched their own lives. Thought-provoking, surprising, infuriating, heartbreaking and heartwarming, AUGGIE & ME is a must-read for the thousands of readers who loved WONDER.]]> 303 R.J. Palacio 0552574775 Jasmine 4
Chris story was okay. Him being friends with Auggie and the stares he gets being around him. Him wanting to be friends with other kids because it's easy to friends with them.

Charlotte story was good. A lesson on being nice. Friendship story for girls.

The narrators did a good job.

Thank you PRHAudio for the complimentary audiobook! ]]> 4.26 2015
author: R.J. Palacio
name: Jasmine
average rating: 4.26
book published: 2015
rating: 4
read at: 2025/04/24
date added: 2025/04/25
shelves: audiobooks, contemporary, middle-grade, owned
review:
Great audiobook! I enjoyed the Julian story. It explained his bullying and the connection to his grandma. Good thing I listened to White Bird before listening to this book because his grandma's story made sense. I see that Julian can't help being a bully. His parents sounded like a bully. His parents are strong minded people.

Chris story was okay. Him being friends with Auggie and the stares he gets being around him. Him wanting to be friends with other kids because it's easy to friends with them.

Charlotte story was good. A lesson on being nice. Friendship story for girls.

The narrators did a good job.

Thank you PRHAudio for the complimentary audiobook!
]]> 215057187 "Refreshingly charming with a feisty, resilient heroine worth fighting for. I loved it!" —Amalie Howard, USA Today bestselling author, for The Lady He Lost

An enemies-to-lovers historical romantic comedy between a grumpy Viscount with a rocky reputation and a bright-as-sunshine heiress determined to make something of herself, perfect for fans of Evie Dunmore, India Holton and Bridgerton.

If he won't add her business into his guidebook, she'll make him an offer he can't refuse.

Della Danby is determined to prove she's more than just a flighty heiress riding on her parents' money to get through life. When her closest friend and business partner finds her hands full with a new baby, Della takes the opportunity to shoulder more responsibility at their ladies' gambling club and secure their financial stability, and she has the perfect to drum up new business by adding their club to a popular guidebook of local attractions.

Gambling ruined Viscount Lyman Ashton's life and his marriage. He has no intention of putting a new club in his guide, nor of getting involved with its intriguing and energetic proprietress. But when Della refuses to take no for an answer and approaches his publisher with a plan to write her own book of attractions for ladies, Lyman reluctantly agrees to collaborate with her in exchange for the money he so desperately needs to pay his debts. As they grow closer, Lyman finds himself falling for Della even though his past could jeopardize her reputation. But if they can ever have a future together, Della may have to choose between the club she's worked so hard to build and her chance at love.

Praise for The Lady He Lost

"Friends to enemies to lovers at its best. I loved every minute." —Harper St. George, author of The Heiress Gets a Duke

"A fun and sexy historical. It is perfect for fans of empowered women and their supportive men." ��Library Journal]]> 352 Faye Delacour 172829066X Jasmine 0 to-read 3.74 2025
author: Faye Delacour
name: Jasmine
average rating: 3.74
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/25
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 179947244
Lieutenant Eli Williams was supposed to be dead. In the two years since his shipwreck, his friends and family mourned him, his brother spent his savings, and his fiancée married someone else. So, when he turns up in the middle of the London social season, he quickly becomes the talk of the town. All Eli wants is to set his life back in order and reconnect with Jane Bishop, a friend who has always meant so much more to him, before returning to sea.

Jane refuses to waste any more of her life pining over Eli, who chose her cousin instead of her. She needs to focus on gaining her financial independence by establishing a ladies' gambling club. Never mind that Eli keeps trying to atone for his past mistake by bringing in new members. He's obviously keeping secrets about his disappearance, which means that she can't trust him with her heart even if she did kiss him in a moment of weakness. Or three.

As Eli works to regain her trust, Jane's defensive walls begin to crumble. But when Eli faces a court of inquiry on suspicion of desertion, Jane must decide if she can let go of the past to build a future with Eli, or risk losing him for good.

This charming and sexy friends to enemies to lovers historical romance romp is the perfect read for fans of Evie Dunmore and India Holton.]]> 336 Faye Delacour 1728290635 Jasmine 0 to-read 3.44 2024
author: Faye Delacour
name: Jasmine
average rating: 3.44
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/25
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 157981701
Spring has arrived and everyone is welcoming the season by doing a little cleaning. Little do they know, Spring is also a season of change!

As the days get longer and the weather turns warmer, Misty the Cloud and friends will have to do their part to help things grow on Earth.

Step 2 Readers use basic vocabulary and short sentences to tell simple stories. They are perfect for children who recognize familiar words and can sound out new words with help.]]> 32 Dylan Dreyer 0593180496 Jasmine 5 from-publisher, picture-books
Thank you Random House Kids for the opportunity to read and review!]]> 4.00
author: Dylan Dreyer
name: Jasmine
average rating: 4.00
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2025/04/24
date added: 2025/04/24
shelves: from-publisher, picture-books
review:
Read for my toddler's bedtime. This story followed mother/daughter living on the clouds and mother/daughter living on earth. Spring is here and both sides are doing spring cleaning. Clare wanted to grow a flower. Misty's mom taught her daughter that spring needs rain and sunshine to take care of trees, lakes, and flowers below on earth. Misty and her friends on the clouds got to working and on earth Clare saw her flower grow from seed to shoot to blooming flower. Fun story for kids!

Thank you Random House Kids for the opportunity to read and review!
]]> 54303829
After his latest mistress unfavorably criticized his skills in the bedroom, Jeremy is looking for reassurance, so he has gone to the only woman he trusts to be totally truthful. He suggests that they embark on a brief affair while at the house party—Jeremy can receive an honest critique of his bedroom skills and widowed Diana can use the gossip to signal to other gentlemen that she is interested in taking a lover.

Diana thinks taking him up on his counter-proposal can only help her win her wager. With her in the bedroom and Jeremy’s marriage-minded grandmother, the formidable Dowager Marchioness of Willingham, helping to find suitable matches among the eligible ladies at Elderwild, Diana is confident her victory is assured. But while they’re focused on winning wagers, they stand to lose their own hearts.]]> 345 Martha Waters 198216087X Jasmine 0 to-read 3.47 2021
author: Martha Waters
name: Jasmine
average rating: 3.47
book published: 2021
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/24
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 60254686 not even the secrets waiting at the gates of Alfheimr.

Estrella's story continues.

Author’s Note: This book is intended for readers who are 18 and older. It contains mature language, graphic violence, and explicit content with darker elements. This is book two in a series and ends in a cliffhanger.]]> 498 Harper L. Woods Jasmine 0 to-read 3.79 2022
author: Harper L. Woods
name: Jasmine
average rating: 3.79
book published: 2022
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/24
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 216248774 Get ready for a new kind superhero—a smelly one! An eleven-year-old boy with the power of super smelly farts and his new dog sidekick team up to defeat an evil alien scientist before he takes over the world! From New York Times bestselling author of Mighty Dads.

One day at P.U. Smellamentary, a regular kid named Phartolomew discovers his farts are super strong... strong enough to blow away some bad guys! But that’s not the only thing he discovers! He finds a hidden lab in the school basement that belongs to the nefarious Professor Gravypants, the evil alien scientist who created him. When the professor’s former minion Reeky Dog reveals that the Professor Gravypants is getting ready for world domination, Phartolomew decides to team up with newly-good Reeky Dog and use his fart powers for good. 

With his new alien friend Reeky Dog by his side, Phartolomew is on a mission—to stink up Professor Gravypants’s evil plans to take over the world by becoming a new superhero called Fart Boy!

New York Times bestselling author Joan Holub teams up with celebrated cartoonist Rafael Rosado to create a hilarious (and odorous) new superhero tale.]]> Joan Holub 0593434323 Jasmine 0 to-read 5.00
author: Joan Holub
name: Jasmine
average rating: 5.00
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/24
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 169272349
In 2018, novelist Jami Attenberg, faced with a looming deadline, needed writing inspiration. Using a bootcamp model, she and a friend set out to write one thousand words daily for two weeks straight. They opened this practice to Attenberg’s online community and soon hundreds then thousands of people started using the #1000WordsofSummer hashtag to track their work and support one another. What began as a simple challenge between two friends has become a literary movement—write 1,000 words per day without judgment, or bias, or concerns about writer’s block, and see what comes of it.

1000 Words is the book-length extension of this movement. It is about becoming—and staying—motivated, discovering yourself and your creative desires, and approaching your craft from a new direction. It features advice from more than fifty well-known writers, including New York Times bestsellers, Pulitzer Prize winners, and stars of the literary world. Framing these letters are words of wisdom and encouragement, plus specific strategies, from Attenberg on how to carve out a creative path for yourself all year round.

Paired with vibrant word art illustrations, 1000 Words is an accessible and motivational craft book that allows you to open any page and get a quick and fulfilling hit of inspiration.

Featuring Roxane Gay, Bryan Washington, Susan Orlean, Maris Kreizman, Sara Novic, Rumaan Alam, Lauren Oyler, Emma Straub, Christopher Gonzales, Benjamin Percy, Mira Jacob, Laura van den Berg, Carmen Maria Machado, Courtney Sullivan, Rebecca Carroll, Ada Limon, R.O. Kwon, Cynthia D'Aprix Sweeney, Elissa Watusha, Alexander Chee, Maggie Shipstead, Deesha Philyaw, Jasmine Guillory, Kristen Arnett, Attica Locke, Megan Abbott, Min Jin Lee, Lauren Groff, Andrew Sean Greer, Camille Dungy, Megan Giddings, Isaac Fitsgerald, Hannah Tinti, Michael H. Weber, Celeste Ng, Elizabeth McCracken, Will Leitch, Maurice Carlos Ruffin, Morgan Parker, Kiese Laymon, Melissa Febos, Alissa Nutting, Liz Moore, Laila Lalami, Megan Mayhew Berman, Rebecca Makkai, Meg Wolitzer, Mychal Denzel Smith, Josh Gondelman, and Dantiel W. Moniz.]]> 272 Jami Attenberg 1668023601 Jasmine 0 to-read 4.17 2024
author: Jami Attenberg
name: Jasmine
average rating: 4.17
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/24
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 196845456 Three wildly different sisters reunite for a destination wedding at an English castle in this heartfelt and rollicking novel from the New York Times bestselling author of The Jetsetters.

Once upon a time, the Peacock sisters were little girls who combed each other’s tangled hair. But decades of secrets have led them to separate lives—and to telling lies, to themselves and to one another.

Sylvie is getting married. Again. A librarian and widow who soothes her grief by escaping into books (and shelving them perfectly), Sylvie has caught the attention of an unlikely match: Simon Rampling, a mysterious, wealthy man from Northern England. Sylvie allows herself to imagine a life beside him—one filled with the written word, kindness, and companionship. She’s ready to love again . . . or is she?

Cleo is the golden child. A successful criminal defense lawyer with the perfect boyfriend, she is immediately suspicious of Simon. Is he really who he says he is? Cleo heads to Mumberton Castle with a case of investigative files, telling herself she will expose Simon and save her sister from more heartbreak . . . but who is she really trying to save?

Emma is living a lie. She can’t afford this fancy trip—and she definitely can’t tell her husband and sons why. She once dreamt of a line of her own perfumes. Fragrances allowed her to speak in silence. Now, that tendency for silence only worsens her situation. Will she emerge with her dignity and family intact?

When their toxic mother shows up, the sisters assume the roles they fell into to survive their childhood . . . but they just might find the courage to make new choices.

Set over a spectacularly dramatic weekend, in the grand halls of a sprawling castle estate—amidst floor-to-ceiling libraries, falconry lessons, and medieval meals—Lovers and Liars is the unforgettable story of a family’s ability to forgive and to find joy in one another once again.]]> 304 Amanda Eyre Ward 0593500296 Jasmine 0 to-read 3.29 2024
author: Amanda Eyre Ward
name: Jasmine
average rating: 3.29
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/23
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 211004174
While his title may be gone, his duties are not. Celehar contends with a municipal cemetery with fifty years of secrets, the damage of a revethavar he’s terrified to remember, and a group of miners who are more than willing to trade Celehar’s life for a chance at what they feel they’re owed.

Celehar does not have to face these impossible tasks alone. Joining him are his mentee Velhiro Tomasaran, still finding her footing with the investigative nature of their job; Iäna Pel-Thenhior, his beloved opera director friend and avid supporter; and the valiant guard captain Hanu Olgarezh.

Amidst the backdrop of a murder and a brewing political uprising, Celehar must seek justice for those who cannot find it themselves under a tense political system. The repercussions of his quest are never as simple they seem, and Celehar’s own life and happiness hang in the balance.]]> 352 Katherine Addison 125081619X Jasmine 0 to-read 4.30 2025
author: Katherine Addison
name: Jasmine
average rating: 4.30
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/23
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 217927387 From the screenwriter and co-author of the #1 New York Times bestselling novel and film Five Feet Apart comes an epic YA sapphic romance, unfolding over two sets of lives, one hundred years apart.

Nineteen-year-old Libby has always been inexplicably drawn to the old Victorian house on Mulberry Lane. So much so that when she sees a For Sale sign go up in the front yard, Libby uses all the money her grandmother left her to pay for college to buy the house instead, determined to fix it up herself—even though she knows her parents will be furious. Soon after moving in, she discovers a journal written by a young woman, Elizabeth Post, who lived in the house nearly a century earlier. It doesn’t take long for the journal to reveal that Elizabeth was madly in love with her personal maid, Patricia. A love that was forbidden and dangerous, especially at that time.

Enter Tish, a brash, broke fellow college student, who passes by the house one day and is mysteriously compelled to knock on the door. Soon Libby offers Tish a room in exchange for her help in fixing up the old house, and the two young women quickly find themselves falling for each other. But as Elizabeth’s journal entries delve deeper into her secret love affair with Patricia, uncanny similarities between that young couple and Libby and Tish are revealed, and it becomes clear that this may not be their first time in this house, or in this love. Is this their chance to get it right?]]> 368 Mikki Daughtry 0593533828 Jasmine 0 to-read 4.12
author: Mikki Daughtry
name: Jasmine
average rating: 4.12
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/22
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 214381686 Celebrate your best Z Swagger life with this gorgeously illustrated, all-encompassing fan book on everything there is to know and love about the modern icon that is Zendaya.

From her years as a child model and backup dancer, to her Disney Channel roles in the sitcoms Shake It Up and K.C. Undercover, to her feature film debut as Michelle “MJ�� Jones-Watson in Homecoming and her two-time Emmy-award-winning performance in the HBO drama series Euphoria, not to mention her singing career, Zendaya has rocked the entertainment industry and captured the hearts of fans across the globe. Zendaya Is Life gathers her incredible life story, films, music, and fan culture all in one place.

This treasure trove of essential Zendaya knowledge

A full biography capturing her early inspiration and first appearances on Disney Channel through her sensational career as a Hollywood starletA full collection of Zendaya’s roles and music, including the significance of each TV appearance and role personally and professionallyZendayology, or Zendaya A to Z, covering significant words, imagery, and people in Zendaya’s life that every Z Swagger should knowA look inside how she's used her platform for advocacy and positivity, from her sustainable fashion sense to her call for diversity and inclusion
Both a tribute to our beloved Daya and a chic showpiece for any well-appointed bookshelf,��Zendaya Is Life is a must-have title for every true Z Swagger. 

The Modern Icons series takes you on a journey through the lives and legacies of cultural icons who have shaped our world, from fashion to music to media. With original illustrations and meticulously crafted prose, this series captivates and enlightens, offering a glimpse into the personalities whose unparalleled charm and authenticity have left an indelible mark on popular culture.

The series  Taylor Swift Is Life, Beyonce Is Life, Harry Styles Is Life, Rihanna Is Life,��Lady Gaga Is Life, Adele Is Life, Timothee Chalamet Is Life, and Billie Eilish Is LIfe.]]> 175 Kathleen Perricone 0760395012 Jasmine 0 to-read 0.0
author: Kathleen Perricone
name: Jasmine
average rating: 0.0
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/21
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 214174985 168 Kathleen Perricone 0760395004 Jasmine 0 to-read 4.50
author: Kathleen Perricone
name: Jasmine
average rating: 4.50
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/21
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 211708746
Pup has boundless energy and endless optimism; Dragon is cool and thoughtful but always up for adventure...together, they are best friends who are always there for one another. In their bounciest adventure, Pup and Dragon are trying to catch the Easter Bunny!

Bursting with colorful art and hilarious text, Pup and How to Catch the Easter Bunny is sure to appeal to How to Catch lovers and new young readers alike.

More Pup and Dragon

Pup and How to Catch an ElfPup and How to Catch a DinosaurPup and How to Catch a Unicorn]]> 64 Alice Walstead 1728293154 Jasmine 0 to-read 4.00
author: Alice Walstead
name: Jasmine
average rating: 4.00
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/21
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 57012543
One more thing before I dream...
Thank you, God, for everything!

Thank you, God, for family dear
helpers, teachers far and near

Thank you, God for friends and fun.
Memory making, rain or sun]]> 40 Marianne Richmond 1728235707 Jasmine 0 to-read 4.00
author: Marianne Richmond
name: Jasmine
average rating: 4.00
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/21
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 208503311
From the USA Today bestselling Punderland series that brought you I Love You Like No Otter, comes a charming Easter touch-and-feel board book, perfect for sharing with a special somebunny. Filled with bee-utiful springtime illustrations and adorable rhymes of love on egg-straordinarily interactive pages, this is an Easter treat you have to see to be-leaf! With sensory features on each page, from glitter to sequins, this book is made for children ages 0-3 –perfect for little hands!

A heartwarming story of love and encouragement, this board book is sure to put a spring in your step and makes a great Easter basket stuffer, outdoor read-aloud , or baby shower gift for that little one ewe love so much!

I will always love ewe; You're so bright and baa-old.

My egg-stra special little peep, my favorite wing to hold.

More charming stories from Punderland, the perfect gift for any

I Love You Like No Otter �� A USA TODAY bestseller!Somebunny Loves You �� A USA TODAY bestseller!There's Snow One Like YouYou're the Apple of My PieYou Make My Heart Go Vroom!and more!]]> 12 Rose Rossner 1464222924 Jasmine 0 to-read 4.40
author: Rose Rossner
name: Jasmine
average rating: 4.40
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/21
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 208503272 44 Louise Anglicas 1464229899 Jasmine 5 from-publisher, picture-books
Thank you Sourcebooks Kids for the opportunity to play and review!]]> 4.25
author: Louise Anglicas
name: Jasmine
average rating: 4.25
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2025/04/20
date added: 2025/04/21
shelves: from-publisher, picture-books
review:
My toddler had so much fun playing sticker dress-up this Easter holiday weekend. So many beautiful sticker choices. Many pretty dresses and hair accessories. Many cool shoes and purses. The girls are diverse with different hairdos so she enjoyed putting on bows and headbands. The stickers are easy to remove and put on and shiny with different patterns and styles. She finished filling out all the girls but I noticed there are still many stickers left and then I noticed the cover of the book says reusable stickers so I realized she could remove the girls she dressed up and wear them in new clothes with new stickers!! This dress-up book kept my kindergartener busy for many hours! I'm tempted to play with it myself!

Thank you Sourcebooks Kids for the opportunity to play and review!
]]> 218129518
Combining magic, mysticism, wisdom and wonder into an inspiring tale of self-discovery, The Alchemist has become a modern classic, selling millions of copies around the world and transforming the lives of countless readers across generations.

Paulo Coelho's masterpiece tells the mystical story of Santiago, an Andalusian shepherd boy who yearns to travel in search of a worldly treasure. His quest will lead him to riches far different—and far more satisfying—than he ever imagined. Santiago's journey teaches us about the essential wisdom of listening to our hearts, of recognizing opportunity and learning to read the omens strewn along life's path, and, most importantly, to follow our dreams.]]> 208 Paulo Coelho 0063442469 Jasmine 0 to-read 4.10 1988
author: Paulo Coelho
name: Jasmine
average rating: 4.10
book published: 1988
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/20
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 125973849 What’s the deal with all the eggs? With her trademark visual humor and comic timing, Helen Yoon takes a look at a puzzling holiday tradition.

Look, an egg! An egg left by a bunny! What does that mean? It means it’s time to celebrate . . . Easter! Or is it time to celebrate breakfast? In Helen Yoon’s scenario, a difference of opinion arises between excitable pups, and the egg bearer (and ultimate squabble settler) is, naturally, an enormous, Zen-like bear wearing tiny bunny ears. As the bear demonstrates, whether it’s decorating eggs or eating them, Easter is kind of . . . delicious! Helen Yoon’s fresh and hilarious take on the Easter holiday—part of a quirky new series of picture books—is a delightful blend of bumbling affection and slack-jawed wonder.]]> 32 Helen Yoon 1536226289 Jasmine 4 from-publisher, picture-books
Thank you Candlewickpress for the opportunity to read and review. ]]> 3.57
author: Helen Yoon
name: Jasmine
average rating: 3.57
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2025/04/20
date added: 2025/04/20
shelves: from-publisher, picture-books
review:
Read for my toddler's on Easter day. A fun read between the animals about what they want to do with their eggs.. few friends only know to cook it for breakfast while other friends think to paint it. One couldn't comprehend the other's ideas until they showed their finished product. Each side were amazed by the other.

Thank you Candlewickpress for the opportunity to read and review.
]]> 216594946 Kids will love discovering surprising animals that live in the United States in this fully illustrated book featuring tons of animals from the strangest to the scariest, and from the oddest to the strongest. 

Divided into quirky categories from "Let's Look at Legs" and "Extreme Habitats," to "Creepy Creatures" and "Brilliant Builders," the book also highlights animals that are vulnerable or endangered, like the tiny Devil's Hole pupfish, the Carolina northern flying squirrel, and the arctic fox. 

With tons of information and facts, this book will inspire a new generation of readers, teaching them the importance of conservation and the protection of all the amazing and weird animals that make the United States their habitat.���ձ�> 48 Jess French 146422093X Jasmine 0 to-read 4.00
author: Jess French
name: Jasmine
average rating: 4.00
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/20
shelves: to-read
review:

]]>