Sarai and the Meaning of Awesome (Sarai Gonzalez #1)

by Sarai Gonzalez and Monica Brown Illustrated by Christine Almeda 4 stars A nice, upbeat chapter book about working together, helping others, and what it means to be awesome. When she learns her grandparents will have to move from their home, Sarai Gonzalez uses her skills in baking, dance, and problem-solving to help them. I…

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That Blue Sky Feeling, Vol. 2 by Okura

Illustrated by Coma Hashii Translated by Jocelyne Allen 4 stars Noshiro and Sanada’s friendship continues to grow, but their relationships with others complicate things. In this volume, Ayumi reveals her own feelings and we meet Makoto who develops a huge crush on Noshiro. Now Noshiro and Sanada must reflect on what they want for themselves…

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Felicity by Mary Oliver

4 stars I have been enjoying slowly making my way through Oliver’s collections. While I absolutely adore her nature poetry, I was pleasantly surprised by this collection’s themes of love and relationships. Wonderfully crafted, these short poems leave the reader with a wonderful sense of calm. A sweet collection celebrating the joys of love and…

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Marley’s Pride by Joëlle Retener

Illustrated by DeAnn Wiley 5 stars An adorable story highlighting that there is no right or wrong way to celebrate Pride. Marley’s grandparent Zaza is getting ready for the Pride celebration where they will receive an award. Marley wants to be there with them, but the crowds and noise make them nervous. With the support…

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Cat + Gamer Volume 3 by Wataru Nadatani

Translated by Zack Davisson 5 stars Another fantastic volume featuring Musubi and his human Riko… now with a new addition to the family! Meet Soboro, the newest furry member in the household. Follow along as she gets the lay of the land, interacts with her new human, and takes her role of annoying little sister…

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The Ancient Magus’ Bride, Vol. 1 by Kore Yamazaki

Translated by Adrienne Beck 2 stars Definitely weird but not in a way that worked for me. Chise is enslaved then sold to a mage, who takes her on as his apprentice… and also a future wife? Okay story. There were parts I liked. Cool fantasy world-building. The plot was a bit confusing. There are…

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A Song for Nolan by Rushie Ellenwood

Illustrated by Sally Chen 3 stars Nolan is excited to attend a friend’s birthday party at the roller rink. They pick out the perfect outfit and are ready for the festivities. But when the DJ announces “boys skate” and “girls skate”, Nolan doesn’t feel they belong. Based on a true story, this book is nice…

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Challah for Shabbat Tonight by Sara Holly Ackerman

Illustrated by Alona Millgram 5 stars In this delightful rhyming and rhythmic story, join the narrator and her grandmother as they bake challah for the Shabbat. Well-written and engaging. Told through catchy rhymes, the book goes through each step of making challah, from mixing together the ingredients and waiting for the dough to rise to…

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