The Girl from the Other Side: Siúil, A Rún, Vol. 8

by Nagabe Translated by Adrienne Beck 4 stars Ah, my heart can’t take this! In order to save Shiva, Teacher must make an unbearable decision, but can their relationship withstand his choice? Beautiful artwork. An intriguing story. I absolutely adore these characters. This volume takes quite the turn. We also get a peek at how…

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Lonely Castle in the Mirror, Vol. 1

Story by Mizuki Tsujimura Illustrated by Tomo Taketomi Translated by Jacqueline Fung 4 stars I watched the anime adaptation and absolutely loved it so of course I had to check out the manga. The first volume did not disappoint. Plagued with intense stomach pains, Kokoro is staying home again. But today is different. Today she…

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Lion Dancers by Cai Tse

3.5 stars Wei has always loved lion dancing. But after his father’s death, Wei quits his team and gives up on his dream. Years later, Wei gets a second chance at lion dancing. Will he be able to push through all of the obstacles to do what he loves? A nice story about what it…

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The Girl from the Other Side: Siúil, A Rún, Vol. 7

by Nagabe Translated by Adrienne Beck 4 stars Another intriguing volume. As danger and violence closes in around them, Shiva and Teacher must decide where to place their trust and determine what lengths they will go to in order to secure their survival. The intensity definitely increases in this volume with the pursuing soldiers, the…

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Kamala Raised Her Hand by Raakhee Mirchandani

Illustrated by Supriya Kelkar 4 stars A beautiful picture book biography of Kamala Harris to inspire action and helping others regardless of how old you are. Follows Harris’ life and highlights her actions to stand up for herself and others in her childhood, in college, and as an adult. While the text is brief, it…

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The Girl from the Other Side: Siúil, A Rún, Vol. 6

by Nagabe Translated by Adrienne Beck 4 stars Abandoning their previous home, Shiva and Teacher have escaped the soliders for now. They travel far to find a new home in an attempt to escape the past. But it always has a way of catching up to them. Another fascinating read. The mysteries continue to build….

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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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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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