Happy March, everyone! We’re officially reaching the point where we have all been masking up and social distancing for a year. But with the vaccine, hopefully an end is in sight! Though, I do think things will look different moving into the future, too. We shall see! Anyway, for the week of 2/27, I read 6 books! A little on the slow end for me, but still a pretty good reading week nonetheless. I’ve got some graphic novels to read this weekend as well, so I can’t wait to get into those!
Bite Size Reviews: Week of 2/27
Winterkeep by Kristin Cashore (2/28)
Four years after Bitterblue, a new land has been discovered called Torla, where the country of Winterkeep lies. When Bitterblue’s envoy drowns on their way there, she decides she has to investigate. But that has consequences, too. As a fan of the Graceling series, I was super excited to read this! Unfortunately, it took me way longer than it should have. The first half was really slow moving, but the pace picked up about halfway through. I think there was just too much information in the beginning, especially since I had just read the other books. A bit of a mixed bag for me (3.5 stars).
Ikenga by Nnedi Okorafor (3/3)
After Nnamdi’s father, the chief of police, is murdered, Nnamdi vowed to avenge his father’s death. When a magical object gives Nnamdi magical powers, he might be able to do it. If he can master those powers. I listened to the audiobook for this and it was fantastic. The narrator really brought the story to life. Okorafor’s writing is on display here, and her first middle grade novel is definitely a success. It is also a strong example of working through grief (4 stars).
Fence Vol. 4 by C.S. Pacat (3/3)
In order to defeat the team that defeated them at the state championships, the team at King’s Row has to learn how to work as a team. This is difficult for Seiji and Nicholas, as fencing rivals. But maybe, they can work together as a team–and something more. I want to keep reading about this fencing team! They are all so great! The writing, the art, and the characters all work together so well to create this story (4 stars).
When We Were Infinite by Kelly Loy Gilbert (3/4)
I already wrote a review for this, so a few thoughts here! This was a really in-depth look at mental health and the way it affects relationships. In fact, it was so well done that parts of it were hard to read. It also looks at how friendships might change after high school and the anxieties that come with that. Overall, it was definitely well done (4 stars).
Chlorine Sky by Mahogany L. Browne (3/4)
Another audiobook! This is a novel in verse, about a girl learning to stand on her own after falling out with her best friend. It also explores topics like sexism, colorism, and other difficult topics. Browne’s verse is impactful and sure to connect with teen readers all over. The author narrates the audiobook, so I definitely recommend listening to it. There’s just something about listening to an author read their own poetry (3.5 stars)
The Mysterious Disappearance of Aiden S. by David Levithan (3/5)
Lucas’s brother, Aiden, disappeared for 6 days. When asked where he’s been, Aiden says he’s been to another world. At first, his brother doesn’t really believe him. But the more they talk, the more he realizes he might just be telling the truth. A look at what happens when kids disappear into magical worlds, which is such a great concept for a book. There are a lot of great lines in this book, and just a strong look at changing from childhood to adulthood (4.5 stars).
Great reviews! I really love the Fence graphic novels!(www.evelynreads.com)
Thank you! And they are so great!!