Hello friends! Sorry I missed doing a Bite Size Review post last weekend, we were in Washington DC! We were moving my sister down there, and it was a quick, fun trip. I did quite a bit of reading on the drive back, though. Almost caught up on my library holds! That’s not something I can say very often. So, for the Week of 10/16, I read a total of 7 books! Not a bad total for the week.
Bite Size Reviews: Week of 10/16
Living Beyond Borders by Margarita Longoria (10/17)
This is a short story collection featuring Mexican American authors on their own experiences in the United States. Overall, it’s a great collection of stories, and I enjoyed that there was a combination of formats throughout. Each of the stories connects to the overall theme and gives voice to a population that is sometimes overlooked in YA (4 stars).
As Good As Dead by Holly Jackson (10/17)
The conclusion to the Good Girl’s Guide to Murder trilogy, and what a wild ride it is. In this installment, Pip is investigating a serial killer in jail who might be innocent. The real killer might actually be stalking her. While I really enjoyed the first half of this book, which follows along the lines of the other books. The second half goes completely off the rails, though. Still not quite sure I liked it (3 stars).
Beasts of Prey by Ayana Gray (10/18)
Koffi is an indentured servent at the Night Zoo, taking care of monstrous creatures. When tragedy strikes the Zoo, Koffi offers to hunt for one of the most notorious monsters in Lkossa. Ekon is in training to become a Son of Six, one of the warriors who protect Lkossa. When he lets Koffi go, he decides to kill the monster haunting the city. The two team up to catch the monster together, but learn more about their world instead. The world building in this was fantastic. Everything about it pulls you into the story. Definitely can’t wait for the next book! (4 stars).
You Can Go Your Own Way by Eric Smith (10/19)
All Adam wants is to keep his dad’s arcade afloat. But it hasn’t been easy. A big name tech company that wants to buy it. Whitney’s dad owns that tech company. So, when the two end up stranded in a snowstorm, they might get to rekindle their friendship. And possibly something more? I already wrote a review for this, but this is a great romance that you’ll want to check out when it comes out in November! (4 stars).
The Giver: Graphic Novel by Lois Lowry (10/19)
This is an adaptation that I’ve read before, but re-read it for a read along I’m doing on Instagram! This might be one of my favorite adaptations, particularly for the way that color is used. It really pulls you in the story, and overall it’s a really effective graphic novel (4 stars).
Kneel by Candace Buford (10/20)
For Russell, football is the only way out of his small town in Lousiana. When his best friend is wrongfully arrested for starting a fight, Russell kneels during the National Anthem. Something that sparks uproar in his small town. The way this connects to current issues works so well. Plus, Buford has created well-rounded characters that you’ll fall in love with. I would definitely recommend the audiobook! (4.5 stars).
The City Beautiful by Aden Polydoros (10/21)
It’s Chicago 1893 and Alter is doing his best to earn enough money to bring his mother and sisters to America. When his best friend, Yakov, turns up dead, Alter realizes that Jewish boys are disappearing. Now, Alter is possessed by Yakov’s spirit. The only way to save him is to find his killer. This is a slow burn historical thriller with a bit of a mythology element. It’s atmospheric, with great characters, and a general sense of forboding throughout. I really enjoyed this one! (4 stars).